Chinese Brass Gu Shape Vase Archaic Leiwen Ground Taotie Masks Qing Early 20th C

Name: Chinese Brass Gu Shape Vase Archaic Leiwen Ground Taotie Masks Qing Early 20th C
SKU: INV5046
Price: 150.00 GBP
Availability: InStock

£150.00

Inventory Code: INV5046

International Shipping

We ship worldwide using tracked and insured services. Prices are calculated at checkout. All items are securely packaged with care and experience.

Pricing

Prices reflect past sales and our assessment of each item’s rarity and condition. Contact us if you would like to discuss.

Research

All item details are based on our own research and evaluation. We welcome questions or feedback.

Authenticity

Every item is guaranteed to be as described, with provenance provided where available.

Refunds

We accept returns within 14 days of delivery. Please contact us first to arrange a return and refund.

Chinese Brass Gu Shape Vase Archaic Leiwen Ground Taotie Masks Qing Early 20th C

ITEM DETAILS

Inventory Code: INV5046

Object: Gu Shape Vase

Material: Brass

Origin: China

Period: Late Qing Dynasty to Republic Period

Date: Early 20th century

Decoration: Archaistic relief decoration with leiwen ground, stylized taotie motifs, raised ribs, and vertical flanges

Mark: Unmarked

MEASUREMENTS

Height: 8.5 in / 21.5 cm

Width: 4.7 in / 12.0 cm

Base Diameter: 2.8 in / 7.0 cm

CONDITION

FAIR (3/5) – Age-related surface dents, scratches, marks, oxidation, patination, and minor irregularities are visible throughout. Wear and discoloration are present to the interior and underside, consistent with age and use. Please review the photos carefully for more details.

DESCRIPTION

A Chinese brass gu shape vase of archaistic form with a broad flaring trumpet mouth, narrow central section, and spreading circular foot. The body is decorated in relief with stylized taotie inspired motifs set against a dense leiwen ground and divided by raised ribs and vertical flanges. Its form and decoration consciously reference ancient Chinese ritual bronze vessels while displaying the decorative character of late Qing and early 20th century archaistic metalwork. The warm brass surface has developed darker areas of patination and age-related wear that accentuate the cast decoration. A striking decorative vessel with a strong architectural profile and antiquarian character.

COLLECTOR’S NOTE

Archaistic gu form vessels were produced as later interpretations of ancient Chinese ritual bronzes, particularly those associated with the Shang and Zhou traditions. Taotie inspired masks, leiwen patterns, and projecting flanges became enduring elements of this revival style and remained popular into the late Qing and early Republic period.

NOTES

Please review all photos carefully as they form part of the description.