Vessels like this – standing upon legs with a lid and two facing handles – are one of the most important shapes used in many Chinese ritual bronzes.
In Chinese history and culture, possession of one or more ancient dings (aka pinyin) is often associated with power and dominion over the land. Therefore, the ding is often used as an implicit symbolism for power.
Acquired from a collector in Toronto, Canada in the early 1990s.
I found a collection of bronze vessels whose craftsmen were meticulous in capturing the era and style. (referenced in “Chinese Bronzes“, by Paul Hamlyn, 1966). All of these vessels were handmade in China (Taizhou, Zhejiang) in the early-1900s. . . . almost museum quality.
For the Serious Collector. Stands not included. 11″ tall x 8.5″ at widest point.