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China

Beaker

Shang dynasty ( about 1600–1050 BC )
Bronze
31.2 × 17.5 cm (12.3 × 6.9 in)

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● On view now — Gallery 131

Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · verified July 2026

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FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG

This elegantly dignified vessel displays the taut, slender profile and crisply cast surface decoration that distinguishes the finest bronzes made for late Shang royalty. Long tapered blades above a band of serpents encircle the wide, trumpet-mouthed neck. Monster masks ( taotie ) with angular horns surround the middle section. All motifs are organized in clearly defined quadrants, which are divided by striated flanges and reserved against a background of finely squared spirals.

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