Lot 151
China, Shang Dynasty, ca. 1600-1050 BCE. Fine example of a Chinese ge, or "dagger axe," with a fascinating decoration on the nei (tang). The simplicity of design of this piece indicates an early manufacture; its decorations place it firmly in the Shang Dynasty. Depicted on one side of the nei is a figure holding the ge in one hand and a shield in the other. The figure is also shown holding just a ge in one hand. These are fairly common pictograms for the period. However, the images are unusual in that they show the figure holding the ge on the right side, rather than the left. The nei is also decorated with an animal pictogram that is likely a clan marking. This pictogram, in combination with the figural marking, bears a striking resemblance to an image published on page 207 of Chinese Bronze Age Weapons by Max Loehr. According to Loehr, "the two glyphs . . . probably read T'ien shih . . . possibly t'ai shih, 'heaven pig' or 'great pig.' They occur not rarely on Shang bronzes, but their significance is still unknown. Maybe they stand as a symbol of a clan." The nei is perforated for lashing to a handle or pole. Measures approximately 9" (total length), 2" (across lan), 2 1/3" (along centerline), 1 1/2" (height of nei) Microscopy report available. Provenance: Ex-Connell collection (currently in publication), ex-Richard Nable collection, displayed at The Young Museum of Ancient Cultural Arts, TX All items in this auction have been legally acquired, are legal to sell, and guaranteed to be as described or your money back. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids, papered by our parent company, Artemis Gallery Ancient Art. The starting price is the lowest price at which the lot can sell.
- Exhibited: The Young Museum of Ancient Cultural Arts, TX
- Condition: Evidence of repair on hilt, otherwise excellent. Beautiful patina, with some very unique deposits of malachite and azurite crystals.
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| 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 | $2,000 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $25,000 |