Bronze Relief Vase on Wooden Base

c. 1900
$2,880 USD SOLD
Dimensions
W: 5.0" D: 3.5" H: 11.0"
Materials
Wood
Bronze
Collection #
CCB020
Estimated Shipping
$250

Prized by emperors and wealthy literati, ancient Chinese bronzes have been avidly studied and collected since the Song dynasty. Enthusiasm grew during the Ming dynasty, when a revival of art of bronze casting initiated a kind of second Bronze Age. This cast vase from c. 1900 showcases the innovative forms that skillful bronze artisans brought to traditional methods. Using the lost-wax process, the artisan was able to create intricate relief patterns of swirling, cloud-like forms and calligraphic abstractions. The vases' rich, chocolate-brown patina is balanced by its footed carved wood base, providing a warm counterpoint to the dark bronze. We agree with one 14th-century connoisseur who wrote that bronze vessels are heavily imbued with earth spirit and preserve the freshness of flowers “as if they were still growing on trees.”

Questions? Ask us

What They're Saying

Elizabeth Krueger | Elizabeth Krueger Design

“PAGODA RED was extremely supportive in helping to pull accessory options together for the Lake Forest Showhouse. After providing them with details and our vision on how we were looking to finish our space, Laurene helped curate options that made it easy for us to edit and finalize. It's also no surprise that the unique pieces we used in our showhouse space were some of the first to sell.”

Receive our weekly email on design &
creating memorable spaces