Art Institute of Chicago

Wine Container

China

Date: Western Zhou dynasty ( 1046–771 BC ), late 11th century BC
Medium: Bronze
Culture: China
Department: Arts of Asia
Institution: Art Institute of Chicago

The bulging, curvilinear silhouette of this house-shaped wine container is emphasized by prominent, hooked flanges, which also accent the surface divisions created by sectional mold casting. The elements of surface decoration—high relief monster ( taotie ) masks, crested and plumed birds, and dragons with reverted heads are extravagantly shaped: Fringes with elaborate hooks and quills, their curves and coils extend and replicate to symmetrically fill the divided panels of the body and lid. Identical dedicatory inscriptions cast within the interior of the base and lid read: "Rong zi [Son of Rong] made [this] precious sacrificial vessel." Such inscriptions, studied as historical documents as well as calligraphic art, contribute to our understanding of the chronology and patronage of ancient Chinese bronzes.

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