This antique Chinese bronze flattened flask, known as a Bianhu, which resembles ritual wine vessels from the Eastern Zhou or Warring States period, or a later archaistic revival.

(5th to 3rd century BCE)

A sculptural bronze vessel defined by its flattened circular body, narrow neck and small ring handles. The surface is organized into geometric registers filled with dense relief decoration, giving the object an architectural, almost graphic quality.

A deep green and brown patina settles unevenly across the bronze, emphasizing the raised details and irregularities of the surface. The combination of strict symmetry, intricate ornament and aged material gives the vessel a strong, monumental presence despite its restrained form.

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