Vase in Shape of Ancient Bronze Vessel, Ming dynasty (1368–1644), 15th–16th century. Porcelain with celadon glaze (Longquan ware). H. 10 1/8 in. (25.7 cm). Bequest of Mary Stillman Harkness, 1950; 50.145.300 © 2000–2017 The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The square handles and ring illustrate the metal origins of the shape of the vase. Similar examples have been excavated in Chinese tombs dating to the fifteenth and sixteenth century, suggesting that the shape was particularly popular at that time.