Minneapolis Institute of Art

Gui food vessel

China

Date

10th century BCE

Medium

Bronze

Department

Asian Art

Institution

Minneapolis Institute of Art

This early Western Zhou gui—used to present grain in ancestral rites—is both a striking artwork and a historical document. Two large birds extend across the body, their crested heads and peacock-like tails marked with distinctive “eye” motifs rarely seen on bronzes of this period. The lively imagery reflects changing court tastes and a move beyond earlier decorative conventions. Inside, an inscription records a Zhou military campaign and a liao (burnt offering) ritual held at the capital. Duke Yong of the Yong state received 10 strings of cowries for his service and commissioned this vessel to honor his ancestors. China, Asia

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