Jue (vessel)

The jue (爵) is a type of ancient Chinese ritual bronze vessel used for serving heated wine. It is characterized by its three prominent legs, a spout, a handle, and often two capped posts rising from the rim. The jue dates back to the Longshan culture and continued to be produced throughout the Shang and Zhou dynasties, becoming a symbol of status and power.

The vessel's function was likely to warm wine over a fire or embers, and then pour it during ritual ceremonies, particularly ancestral offerings. The three legs allowed it to be stably positioned over a heat source. The spout facilitated pouring, while the handle allowed for safe handling of the heated vessel. The two capped posts are of uncertain purpose, but it is speculated they may have aided in securing a lid or cloth over the wine to maintain temperature or purity, or potentially held decorative elements.

The form and decoration of the jue evolved over time. Early examples are relatively simple in design, while later Shang and Zhou dynasty jue exhibit increasingly elaborate ornamentation, including taotie masks, dragons, and other symbolic motifs. Variations in size and material (though predominantly bronze) also indicate differing levels of status associated with the vessel. The jue's significance declined after the Zhou dynasty, as other vessel types gained prominence in ritual practices.