Tang Dynasty (618–907) Gilt Bronze Goose-Form Covered Box

拍品描述

Dimensions: 10.5 cm (4.13 in) long, 8.8 cm (3.46 in) high, 366 g (12.91 oz), circa 7th-10th century AD. Condition and Provenance: This piece is in excellent condition, with the original lid and body intact. The lid fits perfectly, and the surface shows natural wear and tear from age and use. The gilding is well-preserved, with some minor chipping revealing the underlying bronze base, which exhibits a mature and warm bronze hue. Provenance: From a private collection in California, USA, held by a family of collectors on the West Coast of the United States. Description: This gilded bronze goose-shaped box measures 10.5 cm in length, 8.8 cm in height, and weighs 366 g. It was designed as an exquisite ancient container for holding spices, cosmetics, and precious trinkets, combining practical function with elegant display value. The entire vessel is goose-shaped, consisting of a tightly fitting lid and a base container with perfectly sealed edges. Cast in heavy bronze, this vessel has a solid, weighty feel. The goose rests on meticulously sculpted feet, creating a naturally flowing, balanced, and graceful silhouette. The interior is smooth and lustrous with gilding, making it suitable for storing precious personal items. The goose's head is held high, its posture elegant, its beak lifelike, and its neck details exquisitely carved. The wings are adorned with layered, relief-carved feathers, their delicate lines outlining their contours and creating a dynamic, three-dimensional effect. The goose's body is decorated with cloud patterns, complementing the feather motif above. The lid is adorned with small wing-shaped fittings, perfectly integrated into the overall design. In Chinese artistic tradition, the goose symbolizes loyalty, harmony, and good fortune. Animal-shaped covered vessels were highly prized in the court and among literati, combining practicality and aesthetics. This outstanding piece, blending superb bronze casting, exquisite gilding, and elegant symbolic design, makes it a prominent representative of ancient Chinese metalwork and literati art.

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