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Chinese Bronze Dragon Vase with Arrow Handles, Qing Dynasty, 18th Century, China

About the Item

A well cast and powerful Chinese dragon bronze altar vase with arrow handles, Qing Dynasty, 18th century or earlier, China. The altar vase of bottle form, set on a high, splayed ring foot, with a globular body and long, narrow neck set with two prominent tubular lug "arrow" handles. The body of the vase cast with a wonderful textured surface, and features a pair of fantastic four clawed dragons, cast in relief, dancing and writhing among the clouds. Their long, sinuous bodies moving gracefully, their heads with full manes streaming around them, turned to face the viewer. They're bushy tails with an unusual stylized peony design. Wisps of ruyi shaped clouds are cast in relief between the dragons. Dragons are symbols of power and the male energy in Chinese culture. The neck features a large archaistic stylized cicada on either side. Cicadas have been depicted in Chinese art since neolithic times, often symbolizing rebirth and immortality. This type of stylized cicada motif comes directly from Shang and Western Zhou Dynasty archaic bronze patterns. Two tubular lug handles, often referred to as "arrow" handles, grace the sides of the neck. The handles cast with a dense "wan" patterned diaper. The "wan" symbol is a homophone for the Chinese word for ten thousand, and is interpreted to symbolize immortality. A band key fret border of leiwen, rolling thunder, circumscribes the neck. When taken together, the design elements of the vase all point to power and immortality, popular wishes and aspirations in Chinese culture.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 8.25 in (20.96 cm)Diameter: 4.25 in (10.8 cm)
  • Style:
    Qing (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Bronze,Cast
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    18th Century or Earlier
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. In fine condition. The baseplate with scratches, as seen in photos.
  • Seller Location:
    Austin, TX
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU894733736082
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