Shang–Zhou Dynasty Bronze Jar | Four-Handled Ritual Vessel with Lid | Circa 1600–256 BCE

$950.00
$950.00
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Early Chinese ritual bronze jar with lid and four decorative handles, intricate surface motifs, rich patina, Shang or Zhou dynasty, circa 1600–256 BCE, used for ceremonial or ancestral offerings.
Early Chinese ritual bronze jar with lid and four decorative handles, intricate surface motifs, rich patina, Shang or Zhou dynasty, circa 1600–256 BCE, used for ceremonial or ancestral offerings.
Early Chinese ritual bronze jar with lid and four decorative handles, intricate surface motifs, rich patina, Shang or Zhou dynasty, circa 1600–256 BCE, used for ceremonial or ancestral offerings.
Early Chinese bronze ritual jar with lid and four handles, Shang–Zhou Dynasty, circa 1600–256 BCE, rich green patina and intricate surface motifs.
Shang–Zhou Dynasty bronze vessel, four-handled lidded jar with decorative relief patterns and aged patina, ancient Chinese ritual artifact.
Close-up of Shang–Zhou bronze jar showing detailed surface motifs and verdigris patina, used for ancestral or ceremonial offerings, 2nd millennium BCE.
Side view of early Chinese bronze ritual vessel with lid and looped handles, Shang–Zhou Dynasty, circa 1600–256 BCE, authentic ancient artifact.
  • Early Chinese ritual bronze jar with lid and four decorative handles, intricate surface motifs, rich patina, Shang or Zhou dynasty, circa 1600–256 BCE, used for ceremonial or ancestral offerings.
  • Early Chinese ritual bronze jar with lid and four decorative handles, intricate surface motifs, rich patina, Shang or Zhou dynasty, circa 1600–256 BCE, used for ceremonial or ancestral offerings.
  • Early Chinese ritual bronze jar with lid and four decorative handles, intricate surface motifs, rich patina, Shang or Zhou dynasty, circa 1600–256 BCE, used for ceremonial or ancestral offerings.
  • Early Chinese bronze ritual jar with lid and four handles, Shang–Zhou Dynasty, circa 1600–256 BCE, rich green patina and intricate surface motifs.
  • Shang–Zhou Dynasty bronze vessel, four-handled lidded jar with decorative relief patterns and aged patina, ancient Chinese ritual artifact.
  • Close-up of Shang–Zhou bronze jar showing detailed surface motifs and verdigris patina, used for ancestral or ceremonial offerings, 2nd millennium BCE.
  • Side view of early Chinese bronze ritual vessel with lid and looped handles, Shang–Zhou Dynasty, circa 1600–256 BCE, authentic ancient artifact.
Early Chinese ritual bronze jar with lid and four decorative handles, intricate surface motifs, rich patina, Shang or Zhou dynasty, circa 1600–256 BCE, used for ceremonial or ancestral offerings.
Early Chinese ritual bronze jar with lid and four decorative handles, intricate surface motifs, rich patina, Shang or Zhou dynasty, circa 1600–256 BCE, used for ceremonial or ancestral offerings.
Early Chinese ritual bronze jar with lid and four decorative handles, intricate surface motifs, rich patina, Shang or Zhou dynasty, circa 1600–256 BCE, used for ceremonial or ancestral offerings.
Early Chinese bronze ritual jar with lid and four handles, Shang–Zhou Dynasty, circa 1600–256 BCE, rich green patina and intricate surface motifs.
Shang–Zhou Dynasty bronze vessel, four-handled lidded jar with decorative relief patterns and aged patina, ancient Chinese ritual artifact.
Close-up of Shang–Zhou bronze jar showing detailed surface motifs and verdigris patina, used for ancestral or ceremonial offerings, 2nd millennium BCE.
Side view of early Chinese bronze ritual vessel with lid and looped handles, Shang–Zhou Dynasty, circa 1600–256 BCE, authentic ancient artifact.

Shang–Zhou Dynasty Bronze Jar | Four-Handled Ritual Vessel with Lid | Circa 1600–256 BCE

Description
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Historical Context & Origin

Region: Ancient China (likely Shang or Zhou dynasties)
Material: Cast bronze with patina
Period: Circa 1600–256 BCE

Description
This remarkable ancient Chinese bronze lidded jar exemplifies the artistry and technical mastery of early Chinese metallurgy. With its classic form and rich surface patina, the vessel reflects the enduring quality of ritual bronzes from the Shang and Zhou dynasties. Intricate motifs embellish the surface, echoing traditional Chinese symbolism, while four sturdy, symmetrically arranged handles provide both decorative refinement and practical utility. A fitted lid complements the form, further suggesting ritual or ceremonial use.

Features

- Intricate surface motifs with symbolic resonance

- Four decorative handles for balance and function

- Fitted lid crafted in harmony with the vessel body

- Rich patina developed over centuries

- Compact form suitable for ritual and ceremonial contexts

Cultural Significance
Bronze vessels were central to ritual life in ancient China, particularly during the Shang (1600–1046 BCE) and Zhou (1046–256 BCE) dynasties. These objects were employed in ancestor worship, offerings, and ceremonial practices, symbolizing reverence, authority, and spiritual continuity. The advanced bronze casting of this era produced vessels of both functional and symbolic importance, serving as enduring legacies of early Chinese civilization.

Condition
Excellent preservation with well-defined motifs, intact handles, and a patina consistent with great antiquity. The vessel remains structurally sound with a fitted lid, enhancing both authenticity and display appeal.

Dimensions (approximate)
Height: 5.5 in
Width: 5 in

Age
Circa 1600–256 BCE

Learn More

Discover the role and meaning of Chinese ritual bronzes in early dynastic culture: Shang & Zhou Bronze Age – Met Museum

Browse more early Chinese artifacts, bronze ritual vessels, and imperial relics here: Ancient Chinese Artifacts & Imperial Relics – Relic And Rarity

Description

Historical Context & Origin

Region: Ancient China (likely Shang or Zhou dynasties)
Material: Cast bronze with patina
Period: Circa 1600–256 BCE

Description
This remarkable ancient Chinese bronze lidded jar exemplifies the artistry and technical mastery of early Chinese metallurgy. With its classic form and rich surface patina, the vessel reflects the enduring quality of ritual bronzes from the Shang and Zhou dynasties. Intricate motifs embellish the surface, echoing traditional Chinese symbolism, while four sturdy, symmetrically arranged handles provide both decorative refinement and practical utility. A fitted lid complements the form, further suggesting ritual or ceremonial use.

Features

- Intricate surface motifs with symbolic resonance

- Four decorative handles for balance and function

- Fitted lid crafted in harmony with the vessel body

- Rich patina developed over centuries

- Compact form suitable for ritual and ceremonial contexts

Cultural Significance
Bronze vessels were central to ritual life in ancient China, particularly during the Shang (1600–1046 BCE) and Zhou (1046–256 BCE) dynasties. These objects were employed in ancestor worship, offerings, and ceremonial practices, symbolizing reverence, authority, and spiritual continuity. The advanced bronze casting of this era produced vessels of both functional and symbolic importance, serving as enduring legacies of early Chinese civilization.

Condition
Excellent preservation with well-defined motifs, intact handles, and a patina consistent with great antiquity. The vessel remains structurally sound with a fitted lid, enhancing both authenticity and display appeal.

Dimensions (approximate)
Height: 5.5 in
Width: 5 in

Age
Circa 1600–256 BCE

Learn More

Discover the role and meaning of Chinese ritual bronzes in early dynastic culture: Shang & Zhou Bronze Age – Met Museum

Browse more early Chinese artifacts, bronze ritual vessels, and imperial relics here: Ancient Chinese Artifacts & Imperial Relics – Relic And Rarity

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