Ritual Vessels

China, Shang Dynasty (c. 1750-1122 BCE), c. 1200-1100 BCE | c. 1700-1050 BCE, bronze

These objects were used during rituals and other ceremonies. Food was cooked or presented in the three-legged ding. The high gu served as a wine cup. Both vessels are decorated with a taotie mask in solid relief, and exhibit superior quality in the precision and refinement of the details.