I Vessel
Spring and Autumn period 
(771-482 B.C.)
Height:               24.5cm
Mouth diameter:  34.2cm
Weight:              5175g
     The i, a ewer for 
washing the hands, was 
associated with the p'an 
used in ritual ablutions,
according to the Tso Chuan. 
This i is supported by 
four legs rendered in the
form of human figures;  
the handle takes the shape 
of a dragon. Around the 
upper rim is cast a band  
of interlocking abstract  
animal motifs; the 
remainder of the vessel is
covered with horizontal 
fluting.