Chinese Lidded Vessel

Han Dynasty, 206 BC-220 AD. A bronze lidded Ding vessel with a round and cylindrical body that rests on four small feet decorated with taotié; two further taotié are at the sides with rings through them to act as handles; the lid is decorated with three fantastical birds in relief, each one having a hole for passing a rope through; the lid and body is profusely decorated with designs possibly representing fighting dragons amongst clouds. 2.9 kg, 23.5cm (9 1/2"). Acquired on the London art market prior to 1980. Ding vessels are cauldrons that stand upon three to four legs and have two handles to either side of the body. They are one of the most important shapes amongst Chinese ritual vessels and were used for the offering of food to the gods or ancestors. Fine condition.