Covered Vase with Archaistic Cicada Motif

The abstract triangular forms around the waist of this vessel are stylized cicadas: the wings hang down to make the sides of the triangle, and the small eyes can be seen at either edge of the top. In its original Shang dynasty ritual context the motif may have symbolized rebirth or transformation, like cicadas that emerge from the earth after long periods of growth. In this case, the vessel shape and understated low-relief decorations enhance the simple beauty of the polished stone.