Warring States Period Gilt-Inlaid Bronze Auspicious Horse Figure with Cloud Scroll Decoration

拍品描述

Dimensions: Warring States Period (5th–3rd century BCE). Length: 15.5 cm (6.1 in, 0.51 ft); Height: 14.5 cm (5.7 in, 0.48 ft); Weight: 631 g (1.39 lb)，Condition & Provenance: The bronze figure remains in good overall condition with a naturally aged surface and rich patina. The body displays areas of layered reddish and green oxidation, while portions of the gilt-inlaid decoration remain clearly visible. The hollow underside and square opening on the belly reflect the original casting technique. Natural wear is visible on the feet consistent with age and long-term display. Provenance: Private Collection, California, USA.Description: This exceptional gilt-inlaid bronze horse figure represents the refined craftsmanship of ancient Chinese bronze sculpture. The horse is shown standing firmly on four legs, with a powerful body, raised neck, lifted head, and an open mouth creating the expressive appearance of a spirited horse calling out. The upright ears and lively facial expression give the figure a strong sense of movement and vitality. The head, neck, and mane are decorated with sophisticated gold-inlay techniques featuring carefully engraved geometric patterns and flowing cloud-scroll motifs. The entire body is covered with elegant swirling cloud designs and stylized mythical animal patterns that follow the natural contours of the horse, creating a harmonious combination of decorative art and sculptural form. The layered mane, raised short tail, and carefully modeled muscular structure demonstrate the artist’s attention to anatomical detail. The underside is hollow with a square opening inside the body, and the feet show natural wear with an aged bronze patina. The rich surface character, refined casting, and combination of realistic animal form with ancient decorative motifs make this a remarkable example of early Chinese bronze display sculpture.

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