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Image Not Available for Bronze Yen Steamer
Bronze Yen Steamer
Image Not Available for Bronze Yen Steamer

Bronze Yen Steamer

Owner (Aberdeen, Scotland, 1862 - 1940)
Object NameYen
Mediumbronze
ClassificationsApplied Art
DimensionsOverall: Height: 19.1 cm, Diameter: 13.5 cm
AcquisitionJames Cromar Watt Bequest, 1941.
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS014516
About MeBronze yen steamers were ritual vessels used by the nobility to cook food during the Shang dynasty (c.1600-1046 BC). Water was placed in the lower section and the food was placed in the upper section with a pierced partition between the two sections that allowed the steam to rise and cook the food.

Chinese bronzes made in later dynasties copied the shape of the yen steamer.

The date of this yen steamer is unknown.
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