1045–771 BC. Western Zhou Dynasty. A bronze wine vessel known as a You, comprising a detachable domed lid with cylindrical handle top, piriform body, flaring foot and strap handle. The object features two bands of intricate geometric patterns, one on the neck and one on the lid, as well as horned zoomorphic terminals at either end of the strap handle. A you or yu, is a type of Chinese bronze vessel for wine that is characterised by a handle and knobbed lid, as in this example. Such items would have been used during ceremonial banqueting amongst the aristocracy. Excellent condition; beautiful patina. The artefact is fully authenticated with XRF analysis by an independent Belgian laboratory. All samples correspond to the metal content of the period specified; no modern trace elements were detected in the patina; expertly cleaned and conserved. A comparable example has recently been sold st Christie's for $37,000, see ehttps://www.christies.com/lotfinder/lot/a-bronze-ritual-wine-vessel-you-western-4960515-details.aspx?from=searchresults&intObjectID=4960515 Size: L:305mm / W:160mm ; 2.3kg. Provenance: From an old Sumerset collection of Asian Art formed in the 1990s; formerly in a Hong Kong collection acquired in the early 1990s.