Double Ram Bronze Zun Vessel Shang Era Style

Double-ram zun; bronze vessel in the shape of a jar flanked by the heads and forequarters of two rams, with curling and rounded horns, and bodies covered with a pattern of scales. Designs of Taotie and other animal masks fill the rectangular panels below the vessel opening. On the underside are two pairs of C-shaped projections on both sides. The vessel is heavily cast in the shape of two rams sharing the same hollow body that is raised on four legs and from which rises an oblong neck decorated on each side with a Taotie mask below a band of diagonal scrolls. The body is etched with scales and the legs with archaistic motifs. Early 20th century. Originally from China

Two of the well known pieces in the world, which are in public museums, one in the Nezu Museum, Japan, the other in the British Museum. The present vessel has been quite faithful to these early prototypes. The original version of this bronze replica dates back to the Shang Dynasty (1066 BC), also known as the Bronze Age of China. This unique work of art features a cylindrical vessel atop the backs of two standing rams, an imperative animal to early Chinese agricultural tradition. The body of the vessel is intricately decorated with taotie motif, a common design pattern found in Chinese bronze art.

Dimensions: 6″ x 12″ x 13.25″

Antique piece. Sell in used, pre-owned condition. Vintage and antique items by nature have variable amounts of wear, imperfections, signs of use, age and time. Perfectly imperfect. Condition shown as in pictures. Kindly contact us if you need more info. or detail pictures.