Tapir shaped vessel
China , 1736 - 1795
Description
This vessel was originally used for pouring wine during ceremonies. It is shaped like a tapir with a massive body, short legs and upright ears. The shape and decoration are reminiscent of the ancient zoomorphic bronze “zun” vessels, which date back to the Shang Dynasty (about 1600-1046 B.C.) and knew a new fortune from the Northern Song period (960-1126 A.D.). The back of the animal has an opening with a lid, while the belly is hollow to hold the wine.The underside and legs of the animal are gilded; the legs are full so the piece is very heavy. The glaze (blue, green, yellow, red, and white on a light turquoise background) is missing in places. Chinese governors collected rare overseas animals, and the tapir, which, then as now, came from Malaysia, was one of the animals in their private zoos.
Data Sheet
Author
China
Date
1736 - 1795
Material and technique
bronze and cloisonné enamel
Measures
25 cm x 35 cm
Acquisition
Gian Giacomo Poldi Pezzoli bequest, 1879
Inventory number
1125
location
Porcelain Room
The small room houses the exceptional fireplace vase parure, a gift from the Zerilli Marimò family, and two portraits by Giacomo Ceruti.
collection
Jewellery
Gathered in the Jewellery Room, there are sacred items, enamels, jewels, objects de vertu that create a collection heterogeneous and the same time unique for its rarity and high quality. Among the highlights, Medieval Limoges enamels, works by Renaissance Lombard goldsmiths, 16th century jewels, 19th century parures by Fortunato Pio Castellani.