Shang Dynasty, 13th-12th century BC. A bronze ritual wine chalice with plain trumpet-form neck above two bow-string bands with characters in between, the mid-section with a band of dragons with rounded eyes centred on a narrow flange, below three further bow-string bands interrupted by four cruciform apertures, the spreading foot with lip overhanging vertical sides with a further band of dragons with rounded eyes. 726 grams, 24cm (9 1/2"). Property of a North West London gallery; formerly in a 1980s collection.Fine condition.