TWO BRONZE MASK-FORM HARNESS ORNAMENTS

WESTERN ZHOU DYNASTY (CIRCA 1046-771 BC)

Details

TWO BRONZE MASK-FORM HARNESS ORNAMENTS
WESTERN ZHOU DYNASTY (CIRCA 1046-771 BC)
The first is cast in relief as a taotie mask with pierced eyes and curved horns. On the concave reverse there is a vertical attachment loop behind each horn at the top, and a third, horizontal, loop at the bottom. The second is cast in relief as a tiger mask with large openwork ears that come to a point and curved markings on the nose. A horizontal strap spans the concave reverse. There is malachite and earth encrustation.
4 and 2 ½ in. (10.2 and 6.5 cm.) wide, box

Provenance

Both: The Collection of Edgar and Hedwig Worch, Paris; Christie’s New York, 2 June 1994, lot 44 (part).
The Erwin Harris Collection, Miami, Florida.

Lot Essay

Compare the second ornament to the related bronze animal mask ornaments illustrated by B. Karlgren, B.M.F.E.A., No. 33, Stockholm, 1961, pl. 2 (nos. 4 and 5). No. 4 was subsequently in the Frederick M. Mayer Collection and sold at Christie's London, 24-25 June 1974, lot 217.

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