Spouted Tripod Vessel with Dragon’s Head (Jiaodou)
On loan to The Met
This work of art is currently on loan to the museum.According to historical texts, this small bronze vessel was used for cooking food or heating water. Being easily portable, it became extensively used by travelers and armies alike from the Han dynasty onward. Its ornamental dragon head became a ubiquitous decorative motif.
Artwork Details
- 西晉 青銅龍首鐎斗
- Title: Spouted Tripod Vessel with Dragon’s Head (Jiaodou)
- Period: Western Jin dynasty (265–316)
- Date: 3rd century
- Culture: China
- Medium: Gilt bronze
- Dimensions: H. 8 1/4 in. (21 cm); W. 11 5/16 in. (21.0 x 28.8 cm)
- Classification: Metalwork
- Credit Line: Lent by Charlotte C. Weber
- Object Number: L.1996.79.9
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art