Vase (Fang)
Unknown Artist
18th–19th century
Medium
Bronze
Dimensions
H. 5 1/2 in. (14 cm)
Classification
Metalwork
Culture & Period
China · Qing dynasty (1644–1911)
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Bequest of John L. Cadwalader, 1914
Accession Number
14.58.171
Art Historical Context
This exquisite bronze *Vase (Fang)* from China's Qing dynasty (16441911), dating to 18th–19th century, exemplifies the era's masterful metalwork traditions. Standing just 5½ inches (14 cm) tall, its compact form belies the technical sophistication required to cast and finish such a vessel. The "fang" designation likely refers to its angular, rectangular profile—a nod to ancient Chinese ritual bronzes from the Shang and Zhou dynasties, which Qing artisans revived for decorative and scholarly purposes. During the Qing period, particularly under emperors like Qianlong, there was a fervent intere...