A CHINESE BRONZE SILVER-INLAID FITTING.

Han Dynasty.

The tubular fitting divided in two registers separated by raised bands of silver, the middle ring with a frieze of S-shaped ornament, the upper register with two confronting dragons, looking forward and striding amidst cloud scrolls and stylised waves, the lower register with two similar beasts with heads turned to sinister, the foot with a band of pendant leaves, 18cm long, 3.2cm diameter, 200g.

漢 銅嵌銀飾物

2019年Ben Jenssens亞洲藝術圖錄18-19頁

The precise purpose of this fitting is unclear, similar objects are often described as chariot fittings. The inlay bears great resemblance to a crossbow fitting formerly in the collection of Julius Eberhardt. The shape and decoration can be compared to a much larger fitting that was made to hold a wood shaft supporting a canopy over a chariot.

For reference please see Krahl, R.: Collection Julius Eberhardt, Early Chinese Art, Vol 1, Hong Kong, 1999, plate 122f, Ben Jenssens Oriental Art, catalogue 2019, p.18-19.

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