Description:

East Asia, China, Neolithic period, Hongshan culture, ca. 3500 BCE. A rare stone ornament that likely served as a hair ornaments, hand-carved in the shape of a horse-hoof in natural, mottled hues of caramel, butterscotch, and vanilla. Presenting a tubular body, the walls form a slanted, ovoid opening at the top with a flared rim, while the bottom remains flat with annular rim. Veins of dark gray inclusions naturally embellish the silky smooth yet semi-translucent surface of the stone. This uniquely shaped stone artifact, referred to as "horse hoof" or mati by Chinese archaeologists, has been uncovered at Hongshan cultural sites in Liaoning and northern Hebei provinces. The stone is typically thinner along the upper walls of the tube. Researchers now believe these items were a type of hair ornament, as they are often discovered beneath or near the heads of individuals buried in Hongshan tombs. Size: 2.5" L x 2.4" W x 2.3" H (6.4 cm x 6.1 cm x 5.8 cm)

Provenance: private Brighton, Massachusetts, USA collection, brought to USA from China in August 1989

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#189972

  • Condition: Expected age wear as shown, but otherwise intact and excellent with smooth surfaces throughout. Accompanied by padded carrying box.

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January 9, 2025 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000