AN ARCHAIC BRONZE RITUAL TRIPOD WINE VESSEL (JIA) EARLY SHANG DYNASTY, 15TH / 14TH CENTURY BC

supported on three hollow splayed blade legs, the rounded vessel cast in low relief with three taotie masks with raised bosses for eyes below a band of two compressed and elongated masks divided on one side by a strap handle extending from the belly to the wide everted neck, all below a pair of mushroom pointed-cap finials set upon square section posts on the rim, the gray-green patina with light encrustation, Japanese wood box (2)

Old Japanese collects ion.

There is an approximately 4 in. (10 cm) section of the rim broken and restored. Otherwise, in overall good condition.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any stat.mes nt made by Replica Shoes 's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
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Among the earliest of the ritual forms, pottery examples of jia have been unearthed from Neolithic sites such as Longshan.  The form retained its stature particularly during the early and middle Shang dynasty with decreasing production afterwards. It is unusual to find examples with the rounded belly and tall trumpet mouth, the rounded forms are more likely to have a short neck.  The effective combination of the ovoid lower section and angular flared upper section creates a striking profile and is a rare representation of the form.