The front of the
gong has been skilfully cast as a crouching tiger, ready to pounce. Its ferocious face forms one end of the lid. Experts think that the wine was served hot, so that steam would have poured out menacingly between the tiger’s fangs.
The opposite end of the
gong takes the form of an owl, with a rounded chest and complex, spiralling feather patterns detailed on its wings. Between the two animals, decorative dragons and other mythical beasts with beaks and rams’ horns are cast in low relief.
‘When I first saw the Luboshez
gong, I was amazed by the animation of the animals’ faces, as well as the wonderful details of the tiger’s curled forelegs and springing hind legs,’ says Gristina. ‘The overall creativity and refinement are incredibly striking.’