Artwork Page for Tripod Container with Dragon-Head Handle (Zhadou)

Details / Information for Tripod Container with Dragon-Head Handle (Zhadou)

Tripod Container with Dragon-Head Handle (Zhadou)

500s

China, Southern and Northern Dynasties period

(386-589)
Medium
bronze
Measurements
Overall: 22.8 cm (9 in.); Diameter of mouth with rim: 15.5 cm (6 1/8 in.)
Credit Line
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 1983.214
Public Domain
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Location
241B Arts of Ancient China
Print
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Did You Know?

The tripod is supported by three splayed legs issuing from mouths of lion heads and ending in pawed feet.

Description

This dragon, winged chimera (CMA 1980.184), and grotesque monster's face (CMA 1930.731) exhibit uninhibited imagination in the representation of fantastic animals--all are full of energy, vigor, and magical power. Whether as purely sculptural forms or decorative elements of utilitarian vessels, they are characterized by a sensitive modeling of dynamic forms with the typical Chinese elegance of line.
A bronze vessel, aged with a greenish-gray and brown patina, stands on three animal-headed legs with clawed feet. A long, arched handle terminates in a detailed dragon head with an open mouth. Beside an open lid with a hoop, a spout projects from the rounded body. The glint of light highlights thick patches of corrosion and intricate details, including the sharp, curving lines on the dragon head and animal forms.

Tripod Container with Dragon-Head Handle (Zhadou)

500s

China, Southern and Northern Dynasties period (386-589)

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