Lot 1253. A bronze ritual wine vessel and cover, hu, Late Warring States period, 4th-3rd century BC; 13¼ in. (33.6 cm.) high. Estimate USD 20,000 - USD 30,000. Price realised USD 64,900. © Christie's Images Ltd 2011

Heavily cast, the sides encircled by seven bands of fine abstract curl pattern bordered by narrow indented bands with raised edges, with a pair of taotie mask handles on the shoulder beneath four loose rings and attached to the chain handle which is also attached to the cover, cast with a central whorl pattern and surmounted by four small masks suspending loose rings, box.