A large Chinese bronze 'touhu' or arrow vase in the shape of a lion, Ming

L.: 50 cm - H.: 39 cm

Weight: 17.3 kg

Condition: (UV-checked)
- The tail broken off and restuck, probably with some restoration.
- The circular plaque on the underside slightly loose.
- Traces of lacquer and polychromy throughout, as well as important superficial encrustation throughout.
- The finials on the side covers leaning to one side.
- Generally in good condition, presenting very well, with attractive superficial encrustation throughout.

 品相：（已用紫外线光检查）
- 整体品相非常良好，包浆自然，正常磨损痕迹。
- 尾巴断，后修复。
- 侧边的一个盖子的盖钮有一点歪。

Provenance:
- A Belgian private collection, prior to 2021.
- Rob Michiels Auctions, March 13, 2021, lot 203. (sold EUR 25.000)
- The collection of a Dutch nobleman.

Ref.:
- Sotheby's, New York, Mar. 20, 2013, lot 311, for a similar example described as a censer but lacking the lids and with important restoration. (sold USD 75.000) (link)

This early Ming bronze sculptural Buddhist lion vase was probably made for the ‘arrow game’ or touhu. It may have had a secondary fucntion as an incense burner.
The game was played at banquets, with he players throwing arrows into the three vessels on its back, the result being that they would concentrate so hard on winning that they would drink less. The mythical beast is depicted with a lively, striding stance, the forked and bushy tail held high.