Yi, ewer

Spring and Autumn period (771-482 B.C.), ca. 8th century B.C.
Height: 24.5 cm Width: 34.2 cm Weight: 5175 g

The Yi, an ewer for washing the hands, was associated with the p'an used in ritual ablutions, according to Tso Chuan.
This yi is supported by four legs rendered in the form of human figures; the handle takes the shape of a dragon. Around the upper rim is cast a band of abstract animal motifs; the remainder of the vessel is covered with horizontal fluting.

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