商 青铜盂|Food container (yu)

Unknown

12th–11th century B.C · Bronze · Asian Art

This large water container was used for ablution during the sacrificial rituals of ancient China. Whereas most contemporary water containers have loop handles, this rare example features four holes in its foot and four lugs on its neck through which ropes can be attached for carrying. The incised decoration on its surface consists of four masks of an imaginary animal—known as taotie—meant to inspire deference and awe among participants of the rituals.

Artist

Unknown

Date

12th–11th century B.C

Medium

Bronze

Culture

China

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Gift of George H. Kent, 1923