Lot 196. A fine and rare archaic bronze ritual tripod food vessel, gui, Western Zhou Dynasty (circa 1100-771 BC); 23.8cm wide. Estimate HK$500,000 - 800,000. Sold for HK$ 625,000 (€ 74,139). Photo: Bonhams.

Raised on three blade-shaped feet, the exterior finely cast in low relief on each side with a taotie mask divided by low vertical flanges, with a pictogram cast beneath the curved handle, surmounted by a pair of capped posts with whorl motifs between the spout and tip, the vessel encrusted overall with an attractive rich verdigris. 

Note: A gui with similar design and ring handles is illustrated by Jessica Rawson in Western Zhou Ritual Bronzes from the Arthur M. Sackler Collections, New York, 1990, p.443, pl.56.6.

Bonhams. FINE CHINESE CERAMICS AND WORKS OF ART, Hong Kong, Admiralty, 26 May 2014