Antique Vietnamese Nguyễn Dynasty Bronze Moon Flask With Dragon & Sacred Creatures

A superb and very heavy Vietnamese bronze moon flask (pilgrim flask), made during the Nguyễn dynasty period.
Height: 28.5 cm. Width: 22 cm. Extremely heavy for its size due to thick-walled casting.

Both sides are decorated in high relief with dense symbolic imagery. One side shows a powerful Vietnamese dragon among swirling clouds and waves. The reverse features a four-lobed panel containing the dragon, phoenix, qilin, and carp, arranged around a central Yin–Yang medallion. These four sacred creatures represent power, virtue, transformation, and auspicious harmony.

The flask is flanked by two finely modelled tiger-head mask handles, each holding a suspension ring. The surface is richly worked with hammered texture, engraved scrolls, and traces of old gilding, typical of high-quality Huế ritual bronzes.
The interior shows deep, natural oxidation, confirming age and long-term ceremonial display rather than utilitarian use.

A beautiful and highly symbolic piece of Vietnamese ritual metalwork.

Good condition, with expected wear and patination consistent with age.

SOLD WITH A CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICITY

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