Ming Dynasty |Finely cast with the body divided into four registers, the lower register worked with cresting waves beneath bands of lozenge and diaper patterns on the shoulders and neck, flanked by a pair of tubular handles. 18.5cm (7 1/4in) high.|Vases of this type are associated with an ancient Chinese game called touhu (投壺), or 'arrow-throwing', played during banquets. Contestants would aim feathered arrows at the three openings at the top of the vase, with higher points awarded for arrows thrown into the side openings. The loser was made to drink wine, leading to increasing inebriation and diminished throwing accuracy.