An archaic bronze ritual libation vessel (Jue), presumably Shang dynasty (1600 BC-1046 BC).
Conventional form, the body of deep U shape raised on splayed tripod legs of tapering triangular section, decorated in linear relief. A broad and deeply channeled spout flanked by two capped finials of rectangular section. Height 23,7 cm.
Tarnished, wear, two repairs.
Provenance
The Oldertz Collection. Carl Oldertz (1924-2006), was a M.D.h.c. and a Director of a Swedish Insurance Company, Stockholm.
Carl was a passionate collector, who built his collection over the decades. In the 1970’s he started to focus his interest in objects from Asia, mainly Chinese Antiques and Works of Art. He was very much an academic collector who strived to acquire pieces from different epoques and constantly sought after more knowledge about the pieces, the techniques and their history. His broad interest in Chinese culture and history together with his curiosity led him to visit many private collections and museums around the world.
More information
A similar jue was included in the Exhibition Bronzen aus dem alten China, Museum Rietberg, Zürich, Catalogue no 53, another in the Hakutsuru Art Museum, Kobe, by Umehara, Nihon Shucho Shina Kodo, Seikwa, vol. III, pl. CCXXVIII.