SUPERB ANTIQUE CHINESE BRONZE GU
Magnificent antique bronze ritual wine vessel of rare and important square trumpet form. Very well cast, bearing highly stylized taotie masks and angular serpents, reserved upon leiwen grounds between deeply notched vertical flanges extending to the widely flaring mouth. Bronze gu vessels were usually round in form, and there have been only a few discovered of square design. In partially cleaned and original condition with a marvelous patina displaying cuprite, malachite, and azurite encrustation, with areas of semi-hardened soil. See highly magnified images to view patination.
This specimen was purchased in America from the sale of a gentleman who had lived in Japan for many years and collected extensively in Asia for decades. In excellent condition, we note a very small hole in the side and also the tip of one of the upper extending rim flanges was broken off at some early point (prior to ancient patination). We have chosen not to remove patina, clean, or restore as some collectors prefer the original state. See photos with zoom feature to examine closely. Measures approximately 10 3/4" high. A very rare example of early Chinese bronze, this exquisite gu would make a splendid centerpiece for the discerning connoisseur of museum quality Chinese antiques.
A gu is unique type of Chinese ritual bronze vessel. It was used to drink wine or to offer ritual libations. A gu is tall and slender, with a slightly flared base that tapers to a slim center section before widening again into a trumpet-like mouth, wider than the base. Its surface is often decorated with taotie. The gu vessel can be unique in a number of ways. The more elegant styled vessels with more relief and design would be found more commonly in the high class surroundings. The simpler, tall and narrow gu vessels would be found throughout the common family households.
See 12 photos above left. Click on large image to enlarge and utilize zoom feature.
NOTE: Due to rarity and value, this item ships to continental United States addresses only.
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