Shang Dynasty Wine Cup

Hi All

I was wondering if any one here has expertise in Ancient Chinese bronzework or if they could point me in the right direction.

I recently came across a Shang Dynasty wine cup online: http://www.bidorbuy.co.za/item/2732...Century_BC_185mm_height_Antique_Showcase.html

If this is a real Shang Dynasty piece it would be around 3000 years and be worth a lot of money. My question is... can anyone determine if this is an authentic piece from the images? Also what would a piece like this be realistically worth? is the circa 125 000 USD an accurate pricing?

 

Hello NarrowRoad, welcome.
It is likely to be a fake. Chinese fakers like to add some dirt, verdigris, etc. to make it look like it just came from an archeological site.
On a real Shang piece you'd see beautifully layered smooth patina and more subtle verdigris.
The Shang technique of bronze casting was limited, smaller pieces were cast and joined together. These pieces would slip a little during the process, and you often see small holes and seams where the pieces were joined.

 

Really. That is disappointing.

Thank you so much for your feedback. Is there any documentation etc that would come with a certified piece?

 

If it were certified, there would be documentation. However, who would certify it? Fakers are also very good at making 'certificates'.
The best thing is to look for a reputable antiques dealer/auctioneer and buy a piece with provenance.

 

Another option is to look for antique bronzes in the Shang style. Shang and other ancient styles have been a favourite in China since the Song dynasty, and have been copied ever since then. You can still find nice nineteenth century copies and Shang style bronzes for a reasonable price.

 

Oooooooooooooooh!
http://www.sothebys.com/en/auctions/ecatalogue/2013/magnificent-ritual-bronzes-n09026/lot.2.html

 

I would agree with the above assessments. These are commonly reproduced, and often buried in the ground for awhile to add patina.