This squat bronze hu is notable for its
elegant simplicity. Such a vessel would have
functioned as a ritual container for the storage
and transport of sumptuous wines. This refined
hu is essentially unadorned, save for the
rim that slightly curves outward from the short
neck. Originally, a lid would have capped this
hu; however, it has long since vanished.
Over the ages, the bronze has acquired a
fabulous patina of alternating green and rusty
brown hues, adding both delightful colors and
pleasing textures to this otherwise sparsely
adorned vessel. Perhaps the most elaborate
feature of this hu is also the least
visible: its bottom, decorated with a geometric
cross-shaped pattern rendered in medium relief.
Such a work, forged from bronze, would have
been the treasured possession of an elite
member of the Han Dynasty social hierarchy.
Quite simply, only a court nobility of wealthy
merchants could afford such a luxury. Although
this vessel would have functioned as a wine
container in life, it was found discovered buried
in a tomb. A symbol for the bountiful pleasures
of life, for drinking and feasting, this hu
would have represented the joys to be
experienced in the afterlife and the feasts and
celebrations yet to come. Today, this vessel is
not only a gorgeous work of art, treasured for its
history and rarity; but also a stunning reminder
of the richness and luxury of the Han Dynasty,
both in this world and the next.
- (H.815)
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