Celestial Sea Cast Iron Vessel

China was the earliest known civilization to create works using cast iron, first appearing during the illustrious Zhou dynasty (1046-256 BCE). This capacious vessel continues tradition and references 19th-century iron vessels used for collecting rain water near homes in case of fire. Balanced on tripod feet, this basin is patterned in high relief with trailing vines, a border of celestial waves, and scenic panels depicting auspicious birds in flight.