Bronze Relief Vase on Wooden Base

c. 1900
$2,880 USD SOLD
Dimensions
W: 5.0" D: 3.5" H: 11.0"
Materials
Wood
Bronze
Collection #
CCB020
Estimated Shipping
$250

Prized by emperors and wealthy literati, ancient Chinese bronzes have been avidly studied and collected since the Song dynasty. Enthusiasm grew during the Ming dynasty, when a revival of art of bronze casting initiated a kind of second Bronze Age. This cast vase from c. 1900 showcases the innovative forms that skillful bronze artisans brought to traditional methods. Using the lost-wax process, the artisan was able to create intricate relief patterns of swirling, cloud-like forms and calligraphic abstractions. The vases' rich, chocolate-brown patina is balanced by its footed carved wood base, providing a warm counterpoint to the dark bronze. We agree with one 14th-century connoisseur who wrote that bronze vessels are heavily imbued with earth spirit and preserve the freshness of flowers “as if they were still growing on trees.”

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