Lot 2021. A bronze ritual tripod wine vessel, jue, Early to Middle Western Zhou dynasty, 10th-9th century BC; 6 7/8 in. (17.5 cm.) high. Estimate USD 15,000 - USD 25,000. Price Realized USD 23,750. © Christie's Images Ltd 2014. 

The deep body is raised on three blade-shaped legs and is cast in relief around the upper body with a narrow band of two taotie masks, one centered on a single graph cast below the loop handle, which is surmounted by a bovine mask. A pair of semi-circular posts with waisted caps rises from the rim. The vessel has a reddish-brown patina and malachite encrustation.

Property from the Jacob and Mary Stein Collection

Provenance: J.J. Lally & Co., New York, July 1997.

Christie's. Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, New York, 20 - 21 March 2014