Vase with wave pattern and animal-head handles

14th century

Not on view

On loan to The Met

This work of art is currently on loan to the museum.

This finely cast vase exemplifies how ancient bronze designs were creatively reinterpreted in the fourteenth century. The dense patterns of square and hexagonal spirals encircling its neck and foot and surging waves encircling the belly are new inventions that have replaced archaic-style motifs, such as animal masks.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

元　獸耳水濤紋銅瓶
Title: Vase with wave pattern and animal-head handles
Period: Yuan dynasty (1271–1368)
Date: 14th century
Culture: China
Medium: Copper alloy
Dimensions: H. 8 1/4 in. (21 cm); Diam. 3 3/4 in. (9.5 cm)
Classification: Metalwork
Credit Line: Lent by a private collection
Object Number: L.2025.30.2
Curatorial Department: Asian Art