Archaistic jar-form vase

14th century

Not on view

Returned to lender

This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.

This type of flower vase was among the most popular Chinese items exported to Japan in the fourteenth century. Derived from an archaic bronze hu vessel, its shape is creatively transformed into a flower vase with a large mouth. On its shoulder, a band of decoration combines relief swirls and animal masks from ancient bronzes with geometric scrolls found on contemporary lacquer and ceramic wares. Covered in a lustrous patina, this vase reflects the Japanese aristocratic taste for unadorned Chinese bronzes as residential furnishings.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

元　獸耳渦紋銅壺瓶
Title: Archaistic jar-form vase
Period: Yuan dynasty (1271–1368)
Date: 14th century
Culture: China
Medium: Copper alloy
Dimensions: H. 7 13/16 in. (19.8 cm); Diam. 7 3/16 in. (18.3 cm)
Classification: Metalwork
Credit Line: Lent by Tokugawa Art Museum
Curatorial Department: Asian Art