Bronze Shang Jue Form Ritual Vessel, circa 1850

This is a fine antique Chinese bronze ritual vessel in the Shang jue form.  It is 5 1/2 inches tall and 5 1/2 inches across at the widest top dimension.  The jue form of vessel was used extensively in the Shang dynasty.  It functioned as a drinking cup, often used for a type of fermented beverage made from millet that was consumed during ritual ceremonies.  The two capped posts rising up from each side of the vessel, as well as the shape of the body and the legs are typical of the late Shang period.  This Shang jue style of vessel has been repeatedly fashioned in bronze over the centuries.  The one that we are offering here is dated to the mid 1800s and is one of the finest examples of the Shang jue form that we have seen.  It is in excellent condition for an item of this age, with a beautiful, rich patina, as can be seen in the photos.

     Price: $250.   (#1071)