Untitled

Unknown

14th–15th century · Cast bronze · Asian Art

This vase turns away from the dense decoration of archaistic bronzes yet conveys an antique look. The bladelike motifs derive from ancient ritual bronzes, but the long flaring neck and bulbous body are features of thirteenth- to fifteenth-century ceramics. Notably, its handles feature elephant heads, a sacred animal in Buddhism. This decor would have been appropriate as a flower vase for Buddhist practitioners or in a monastery.

Artist

Unknown

Date

14th–15th century

Medium

Cast bronze

Culture

China

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Purchase, Barbara and William Karatz Gift, 2019