Green-patinated bronze zoomorphic covered ritual vase in the style of Shang period bronzes, China, 20th century This type of mythical animal-shaped vessel, here inspired by the buffalo, was designed to hold fermented beverages. The body rests on an annular foot with two notches, has a semicircular handle with a bestial head at the back and closes with a lid forming the animal's back and head, complete with two horns. The bronze is entirely cast in relief with archaic motifs, taotie and kui dragon masks on a leiwen background. The underside is decorated with a diamond-patterned fishnet. Height: 18.8 cm