The form of the vessel is based on that of an archaic bronze jue, the elliptical body moulded with four panels raised in shallow relief and incorporating precious objects and symbols.
The flared rim is incised with a band of key fret and the grooved loop handle applied to one side has a grotesque mask, a motif which again appears on the shoulders of the three cabriole legs.
Two vertical columns, which would normally project from the interior rim are missing, 8.8cm high.
