Ming Dynasty Chinese Gilt Bronze Guardian Figures

Hailing from the Ming period in 16/17th century, this monumental bronze vase is a fine example of the auspicious decor and markings unique to Chinese furnishings. The vase is cast wi...

A small and interesting cast bronze archaistic scholar vase with loose ring handles and taotie mask design, late Ming or early Qing Dynasty, mid 17th century, China. The small vase of archaistic hu form, and cast with archaistic designs. Sitting on a tall splayed ring foot, the round body is cast with a large band featuring a ferocious taotie (ogre) mask. The taotie mask in this case id decidedly feline, with a ruyi shaped snout above a whiskered mouth. Two flanges stick out to either side of the mask, reminiscent of ears. A wide, tall neck rises from the body, terminating in a slightly everted mouth. The archaistic cast design on the neck is not as clear, but most likely represents Fusang, a mythical island in the Eastern Sea where the legendary Fusang tree grows. The Fusang tree, home to the mythical Sun Bird...

A stoneware figure depicting a seated armored warrior with a striking pose circa 15th-17th century. He is likely one of the four heavenly kings, th...

This fine old urn cast as an honorific nod to the ancient past of China was made circa 1600-1650. The shape or Hue was a common and well-represented form in the Han dynasty in pottery and bronze. This urn shows thin casting to the walls with incorporated toe tia or facial masks...