Late Shang DynastyThe pear-shaped body of oval section supported on a spreading foot cast with a band displaying large taotie masks, a further band of taotie masks around the waisted neck, with large rounded eyes on each side, and separated by a narrow band, the sides applied with a pair of rams-head lug handles with long curling horns, with mottled light green patina and areas of malachite encrustation. 41cm (16 1/8in) high.