Lot 996. A rare small bronze ritual tripod steamer, yan, Warring States period, 5th century BC; 8¼ in. (20.4 cm) high. Estimate USD 25,000 - USD 35,000. Price realised USD 75,000. © Christie's Images Ltd 2019

The upper section, zeng, is of bowl-shape and cast with three horizontal bands of S-shaped interlocking dragon scroll centered by a pair of bovine-mask and loose ring handles. The bottom of the interior is pierced with steam vents cut as slits arranged in a circular pattern. The lower section, fu, is cast with a band of similar scroll and also has mask and ring handles. The vessel has a pale brownish-red patina with cuprite and malachite encrustation.

Provenance: Acquired in Hong Kong, 23 April 1995.

Christie's. Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, New York, 18 - 19 September 2014