Vase with elephant-headed handles China 14th–15th century This elegant vase represents an aesthetic revolution in its creative reinterpretation of an ancient bronze vessel. Although its décor follows archaic models, its long flaring neck and bulbous body are unmistakable features of thirteenth to the fifteenth century ceramics. Furthermore, its two elephant-head handles reflect the influence of Buddhism during the period. In Chinese Buddhism, the elephant was identified as the vehicle of Samantabhadra, the Buddhist deity associated with religious practice and mediation. For Chan (Zen in Japane

Vase with elephant-headed handles China 14th–15th century This elegant vase represents an aesthetic revolution in its creative reinterpretation of an ancient bronze vessel. Although its décor follows archaic models, its long flaring neck and bulbous body are unmistakable features of thirteenth to the fifteenth century ceramics. Furthermore, its two elephant-head handles reflect the influence of Buddhism during the period. In Chinese Buddhism, the elephant was identified as the vehicle of Samantabhadra, the Buddhist deity associated with religious practice and mediation. For Chan (Zen in Japanese) practitioners during the Mongol Yuan period, when many literati fled into Buddhist monasteries, this décor would have been particularly appropriate for a flower vase used in a Chan setting. View more. Vase with elephant-headed handles. China. 14th–15th century. Cast bronze. Yuan (1271–1368)–Ming (1368–1644) dynasty. Metalwork

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