Han Bronze Hu

This Hu has a pear shaped body which swells at the belly above a flared circular base and contracts at the neck. From the neck, the vessel flares out forming a wide mouth decorated on the side with a plain band. A second band divides the mouth and upper belly, and a third band appears accross the center of the belly below two taotie mask handles. During the Han Dynasty, the tradition of casting bronze vessels for use in ritual ceremonies continued. By this time, the shapes of vessels had become canonized and subject to many stylistic restrictions. However, technological advances had enabled foundries to increase production, making them more accessible to wealthy patrons. This Hu is classified as a wine holding vessel, serving an important role in the indulgent lifestyle of the wealthy and the rites and ritual of the Han