Tang Dynasty Silver Alms Bowl Chased with Interlocking Floral Scrolls,7th–10th Century A.D.
专场: Autumn Asian Art Auction (Part 3)
拍品描述
Dimensions:Mouth diameter 15.2cm (5.98 in), height 6cm (2.36 in), weight 284.2g, 7th–10th Century A.D.Condition & Provenance:The silver vessel is structurally intact without cracks or major losses, only minor natural wear along the rim from long-term use, no soldered repairs. The whole surface is covered in thick natural black ancient patina formed over centuries. All chased decorative lines remain crisp and intact without heavy abrasion; the metal texture shows authentic natural aging, with no modern chemical cleaning or artificial polishing alterations. Provenance: Former private collection of an ancient metalwork collector based in California, USA. Acquired at Paris Asian Antique Fair in 2009, preserved within one family for over forty years. It was only exhibited at private Tang silverware themed shows and has never been consigned to public auctions.Description:This chased silver alms bowl follows imperial Tang Dynasty craft standards, classified as high-grade daily-use gold and silverware with designated export market California. It boasts a full rounded alms bowl silhouette with wide opening and curved tapering belly, embodying the soft, elegant shape iconic of Tang silverwork. The exterior is divided into decorative bands: a border of triangular geometric patterns lines the rim, while the main body is fully covered in meticulously chased interlocking floral scrolls with smooth, sharp carving strokes. Central round peony flower medallions are chased on both inner and outer bases, arranged in full symmetrical composition—a signature decorative motif of the prosperous High Tang era. The vessel is hand-hammered from thin silver sheet then embellished with flat chasing carving, a highly intricate luxury craft. Surviving Tang gold and silver artifacts are extremely scarce, and complete alms bowls retaining full interior and exterior chased decoration are exceptionally rare. Covered in smooth natural black silver patina after over a thousand years of burial and handling, this piece offers excellent preservation. It carries dual value as critical material for Tang craft academic research and a top-tier display collectible, highly sought after by elite silverware collectors based in California, New York and Hong Kong.
图片