China: A bronze yi (ritual vessel) in the shape of a gourd with a dragon handle, Western Zhou Dynasty (1029 - 771 BCE), Shanghai Museum, Shanghai

A yi (Chinese: 匜; pinyin: yí) is a shape used in ancient Chinese ritual bronzes. It has the shape of half a gourd with a handle (often in the shape of a dragon) and usually supported by four legs. It is believed it was used to contain water for washing hands before rituals like sacrifices.

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CPA Media Co. Ltd.

Photographer:

David Henley

Credit:

Pictures From Asia