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This is not a fragile ornament; it is an anchor. Weighing in at a substantial 10.5 pounds, this vintage Chinese Fanghu (square wine vessel) commands the room with a physical and visual gravity that lighter reproductions simply cannot match. Modeled after the ritual bronzes of the Shang Dynasty, this piece features a mesmerizing verdigris patina and high-relief Taotie masks that seem to emerge from the mist of centuries. It feels significant in your hands—cold, dense, and solid. Whether you are a collector of Asian antiquities or a designer seeking a piece with true "soul" and presence, this heavy bronze vessel offers the rare combination of aesthetic beauty and undeniable material quality.
A Monumental Casting The sheer density of this piece sets it apart. While many vintage-style vases are hollow or lightweight, this vessel is cast with thick walls, giving it the stability and permanence of a true artifact.
Weight: 10.5 lbs (4.76 kg). This significant weight indicates a high-quality casting, likely from the mid-20th century or earlier.
The Form: A classic Fanghu shape—a square body that tapers elegantly at the neck and flares at the mouth. The sharp, architectural lines offer a striking contrast to the organic, swirling patterns on the surface.
The Relief: The body is covered in the Leiwen (thunder pattern) background, overlaid with the fearsome Taotie mask motif—the gluttonous beast of ancient mythology, rendered here with deep, crisp detailing.
The Handles: Flanking the neck are two sculptural beast loops (possibly dragons or makaras) holding loose, free-moving rings. The rings strike the vessel with a clear, resonant metallic tone.
The Patina: A masterful, multi-layered finish mimicking excavated bronze. Hues of malachite green, dusty grey, and deep bronze intermingle to create an "unearthed" aesthetic.
Provenance Mark: The neck bears the hand-painted inventory number "621," suggesting this piece has a history—perhaps formerly part of an auction house inventory, a museum loan, or a cataloged private estate collection.
Condition: Excellent vintage condition. The structure is rock-solid. There are no cracks, dents, or repairs. The surface wear is consistent with age and adds to the authentic "relic" appeal.
The "Anchor" of Your Collection In design, "visual weight" is crucial, but actual weight conveys luxury.
Stability & Function: Because it weighs over 10 pounds, this vessel is incredibly stable. It is perfect for holding tall, heavy branches (like cherry blossoms or quince) without tipping over—a common problem with lighter vases.
Tactile Luxury: There is a visceral satisfaction in owning heavy décor. When you lift this to dust or move it, the density reminds you of its quality. It is a sensory experience, not just a visual one.
Timeless Investment: Heavy, well-cast bronzes from the vintage era are drying up. As modern manufacturing moves toward cheaper alloys and resins, solid pieces like this are becoming true rarities. This is an heirloom that will survive for generations.
Handling Heavy Art
Placement: Due to the 10.5 lb weight, ensure your shelf or glass table is rated to hold heavy objects. Felt pads have been (or should be) applied to the base to protect your wood surfaces from the raw metal.
Cleaning: Dust gently with a soft brush. Avoid water or liquid cleaners, as they can alter the verdigris finish.
Shipping Assurance: Shipping a heavy item requires heavy-duty protection. This vessel will be "double-boxed" with reinforced corners and high-density foam to prevent shifting during transit. We treat it like the museum piece it emulates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the shipping cost higher than usual?
Shipping is calculated based on weight and dimension. At 10.5 lbs (plus roughly 3-4 lbs of packaging material), this is a heavy parcel. We prioritize safety over cutting corners on shipping.
What does the "621" mean?
It is an inventory control number, likely from a previous collection. It serves as a fascinating clue to the item's journey before reaching you.
The Window is Closing It is rare to find a Fanghu of this specific size that carries this much weight. Most available on the market today are lighter, later copies. This is a substantial, serious piece of metalwork.
Is this an authenticated ancient artifact?
This piece is sold as an archaic-style bronze vessel. No academic or metallurgical authentication has been performed.
Why does weight matter?
Heavier bronzes indicate thicker casting, higher material quality, and greater long-term durability—key value indicators for collectors.
Will I see another like this?
Possibly—but not often, and rarely at this quality and weight.
?? Once sold, this exact piece is gone forever.
If it speaks to you now, trust that instinct.
_gsrx_vers_1730 (GS 9.9.4 (1730))
_gsrx_vers_1730 (GS 9.9.4 (1730))
_gsrx_vers_1736 (GS 9.9.5 (1736))
| Primary Material | Bronze |
|---|---|
| Country of Origin | China |
| Age | Pre-1800 |
| Original/Reproduction | Antique Original |
| Region of Origin | China |
| Material | Bronze |
| Type | Statue |
Offered by Gosla Antiques & Collectibles, purveyors of antiquities, curiosities and collectible wares. Dispatched from Pennsylvania, United States, with tracking.
Gosla Antiques & Collectibles