Dou food vessel, 4th century BCE
Unknown artist, Chinaexpand_more
Bronzeexpand_more
Gift of Ruth and Bruce Daytonexpand_more 99.66.1a,b
Not on Viewexpand_more
The deep bowl of this food-offering vessel is set on a high slender foot with matching cover to form a sphere. The upper half has three faceted projections that serve as tripod legs when the cover is turned over for use as a bowl. All elements are decorated with fine linear scroll motifs, fretwork patterns, and triangular panels that vaguely recall earlier bronze styles and motifs.
With the dispersal of wealth and political authority during the Eastern Zhou (c. 770–256 BCE), the number of local foundries increased and workshops developed regional styles. Variety was a hallmark of the era. This vessel was made in the State of Yan (in present-day Beijing). Artisans looked to earlier bronze-casting traditions and revived certain elements of animal-based decoration like the cicada-inspired triangle panels on this dou.
Details
- Title
- Dou food vessel
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 99.66.1a,b
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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