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Just bought this out of curiosity, and would like to enhance my education. Seems contemporary, but I can't figure out what it is. It's about 4 1/2 inches tall, including the two finials on top. Lightweight. The three feet come to very sharp points (so sharp I had to carry it carefully). Balance on the feet is okay, but perhaps the feet are designed to dig into something, to hold it upright better? Will appreciate any thoughts. Thanks to all in advance

This is a contemporary reproduction of an ancient Chinese ritual vessel of a type called "Jue" (爵). See the link below to a Christie's auction, or just query "Jue" on Google for further details.

http://www.christies.com/lotfinder/lot/a-bronze-tripod-ritual-wine-vessel-jue-5416831-details.aspx

Best regards,

Bill H.

It's a very modern replica of an ancient Chinese bronze vessel, not faithful to originals.

This is a contemporary version of an archaic Chinese bronze vessel called a "jue" that emerged in this form during the Shang dynasty (basically 1600-1100BC). The three pointed feet may have anchored the vessel above coals to heat the wine inside it. Subsequently collected during the Song period in particular, Chinese made and collected imitations of lesser quality from then through the Qing, but yours is a modern replica of a Qing sort of style I think. Others may know more. Here is a nice Shang jue for comparison:

http://www.sothebys.com/en/auctions/ecatalogue/2013/magnificent-ritual-bronzes-n09026/lot.2.html

Rat, Bill and Jim .. Many thanks. Always good to learn.

Here is a Shang dynasty one at the Montreal MFA. Sorry for the poor lighting...

Cheers,
Stan

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