East Asia, China, late Ming to Early Qing Dynasty, ca. 17th to 19th century CE. An elegant arrow vase cast from bronze- the unusual side cylinders were used in a drinking game called touhu or pitch pot, where participants threw wood arrows into the wide mouth or cylinders. Although the popularity of the game fluctuated, vessels with this arrow game design were made in various materials - the unique profile sculpturally pleasing. Pottery vessels were unlikely candidates for game use since they risked breaking if tipped over by the arrows. This bronze example is short and may not have been used for playing either due to the smaller dimensions of openings, and may have simply been made as a reinterpretation of ancient forms and the glory of former dynasties. The entire piece has a hexagonal design; the foot, body, and opening rims are hexagonal shaped and the repeating surface patterns as well. The hexagon is a symbol of the 4 cardinal directs plus heaven and earth. Size: 3.5" Diameter x 9.25" H (8.9 cm x 23.5 cm)

Provenance: private Shaker Heights, Ohio, USA collection, acquired prior to 2008

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#179384

Some nicks and small chips scattered on surface, otherwise intact and great condition. Mineral encrustations on base and exterior and some protective wax.