Wine Container
Western Zhou dynasty ( 1046–771 BC ), late 11th century BC
Medium
Bronze
Dimensions
32.8 × 18.4 × 14.4 cm (12 7/8 × 7 1/8 × 5 5/8 in.)
Classification
bronze
Department
Arts of Asia
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
12634
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
The bulging, curvilinear silhouette of this house-shaped wine container is emphasized by prominent, hooked flanges, which also accent the surface divisions created by sectional mold casting. The elements of surface decoration—high relief monster (taotie) masks, crested and plumed birds, and dragons with reverted heads are extravagantly shaped: Fringes with elaborate hooks and quills, their curves and coils extend and replicate to symmetrically fill the divided panels of the body and lid. Identi...
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...