Zun cup with handle

The round shape, angular handle, flat bottom, and three protruding legs are all evidence that this cup is based on metal prototypes of the late Han through the Tang dynasties. It is perhaps most closely related to Tang silver works. The decoration is divided into several bands. The narrow register at the top consists of squared spirals based on leiwen patterns. The middle section of the body bears a wonderfully free-flowing design of abstract birds and felines bounded by series of small C-shaped motifs. These C- shapes also make up the lower band of decor and are clearly derived from jade decorations of the Spring and Autumn Period. Thus the vessel combines a metal shape with designs derived from both jade and metal.