1100-900 BC. Early Western Zhou Dynasty. Bronze cast vessel Gui comprising a broad shelf-like lip, hemispherical bowl, wide loop handles topped with moulded dragons, and a cylindrical base. Just below the rim is a horizontal frieze showing a stylised dragon. At the part of the frieze which lays midway between the two handles is a projecting dragon’s head. The Gui is a classic vessel shape in Chinese bronzewares, which originated in the Shang dynasty in the 16th century BC but continued to be made for many centuries thereafter. Dragons, the fifth animal of the Chinese zodiac are a symbol of power, strength and good fortune in Chinese art, and this beautiful object may have once been used during rituals or for dining. A similar item was recently sold at Christies for $100,000, see https://www.christies.com/lotfinder/lot/a-bronze-ritual-food-vessel-gui-early-6276466-details.aspx?from=searchresults&intObjectID=6276466. Expertly cleaned and conserved. In order to confirm its authenticity, this piece has undergone X-Ray Fluorescence analysis by an independent Belgian Laboratory. The samples collected show the chemical composition to reflect the typical metal contents of the described period, whilst also showing no modern trace elements in the patina. Excellent condition; beautiful patina.Size: L:170mm / W:215mm ; 2.8kg; Provenance; Property of a Central London gallery, acquired from an established English collection; formerly acquired in Hong Kong, Hollywood Antique Center in the early 1990s.