Dimensions: Height 13,5 cm to 16 cm

Weight: 1857 grams All

A group of three Chinese bronze ritual gu wine vessels, each of classic trumpet form with a flaring mouth, waisted midsection, and spreading foot. The vessels are cast with archaistic decoration inspired by Shang and Zhou dynasty prototypes, including stylised taotie masks, scrolling motifs, and dense leiwen (thunder-pattern) grounds, arranged in horizontal registers.

The central gu is slightly larger and more robust in proportion, its surface enriched with tightly coiled spiral bands and crisply defined relief. The two flanking vessels are of closely related form, featuring faceted bodies with applied vertical flanges and simplified mask motifs, creating a harmonious yet varied ensemble.

All three vessels display a deep, dark patina with areas of brown and greenish oxidation, consistent with age and ritual use, enhancing the sculptural depth of the decoration. Sets and groups of archaistic bronzes such as these were highly prized in the Qing dynasty, reflecting the scholarly fascination with antiquity (jinshixue) and the revival of ancient ritual forms for use in domestic altars and the studios of the literati.

For lots marked with (R), a 19% VAT is added to the combined hammer price and commission. This VAT is waived for:

- Private buyers outside the EU who officially export the items.
- Businesses inside the EU holding a valid VAT number, exporting to their home country.

Proper export documentation is required to waive the VAT