Large Chinese Cloisonné Enamel Archaistic Ritual Wine Vessel, Yu
With cover. Late Qing Dynasty to early 20th century.
The imposing vessel was inspired by archaic bronze Yu vessels of the Shang and Zhou dynasty, the ritual container, with overhead swing handle. The rectangular body raised on a splayed foot and surmounted by a stepped rectangular cover with a faceted finial. The gilt-bronze frame and handle are elaborately decorated with cloisonne enamels in vibrant shades of turquoise, royal blue, red, and yellow. The exterior is superbly worked with bands of stylized taotie masks, archaic scrolls, and scale-pattern grounds, all reserved on a blue and red enamel field. The foot is decorated with chevron bands above a diaper pattern. The cover is decorated with geometric cloud-scroll and confronting dragon motifs. The interior of the body and cover is enameled in turquoise.

Height overall: approx. 15 in. ( 38 cm).

Condition: Overall in good condition. The cover and swing handle are present and function properly, Minor scattered enamel losses, primarily along the edges, corners and rime, with expected rubbing and wear to gilt bronze mounts consistent with age and handling. Light surface scratches and minor oxidation / patina to the metal. No obvious crack, major dents, or visible repairs observed.
Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For a detailed condition report or to request additional images, please email the gallery directly at auctions@finesf.com. Condition report requests received after 5pm the day before the sale are not guaranteed. Shipping is not included. Please bid accordingly, as all sales are final, no returns are accepted on basis of condition.