Description:

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)

  • Provenance: Ex- Connell collection (currently in publication), ex-Richard Nable collection.
  • Exhibited: Displayed at The Young Museum of Ancient Cultural Arts, TX
  • Notes: Authenticity Guaranteed
  • Condition: Evidence of repair on hilt, otherwise excellent. Beautiful patina, with some very unique deposits of malachite and azurite crystals.

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June 13, 2013 9:00 AM MDT
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Artemis Fine Arts

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