gu BM-1966-0223.3

Period:Shang dynasty Production date:1200BC-1050BC (circa)
Materials:bronze
Technique:cast
Subjects:taotie
Dimensions:Diameter: 17.50 centimetres Height: 30 centimetres Weight: 1.15 kilograms

Description:
Bronze alcohol vessel in the shape known as ‘gu’. Decorated with taotie designs and inscription inside foot.
IMG


Comments:Rawson 1992:The ‘Gu’ is a ritual vessel for wine with a curved profile constricted at the waist. One of the most ancient forms of ritual vessel, ceramic ‘gu’ were used from the Erlitou period. See BM 1990.0807.1.As a group, bronze ritual vessels would have created a striking visual effect. Golden in colour when first made, they would rapidly have turned black in the humid summer climate of north-central China.