Description:

East Asia, China, Warring States to Han dynasty, ca. 475 BCE to 206 CE. A bronze axle hub from a chariot wheel, decorated with elaborate incised bands of interlacing spiral patterns known as kui ("snake" or "dragon") and leiwen (a motif of thunder). The pin that secured the axle and wheel in place is a removable peg with a mythical creature's face, known as a taotie, cast into the finial tip. Two wheeled chariots were used at this time for warfare, often carrying military leaders to monitor troops and to pursue and attack the enemy- the use of metals such as bronze for the fittings was crucial to ensure durability to withstand rough use in battle. Size: 3" Diameter x 3.2" H (7.6 cm x 8.1 cm); 4.2" H (10.7 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: ex-John Hurter collection, Palm Springs, California, USA, purchased in Egypt in the mid-1980s and imported into the US prior to 1995

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#178943

  • Condition: Heavy green patina with some areas of blue. Pin is removable and has white mineral encrustation. Softening to motifs, but overall good and intact condition!

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May 25, 2023 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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