This bronze lei (wine container) represents the pinnacle of Western Zhou Dynasty (c.11th century-771 BC) bronze craftsmanship. The lid of the vessel is decorated with a dragon with a pair of horns, featuring an adorable expression with its eyes wide open. Its front paws rest on the lid.
The dragon, with back ridges, is adorned with double spiral motifs and symbols of the ancient states of Ba and Shu. The intricate and rich decorations on the vessel exude an air of dignified nobility and profound mystery. It is in the permanent collection of the Sichuan Museum.