AN IMPORTANT AND RARE GOLD- AND SILVER-INLAID BRONZE FERRULE, EASTERN ZHOU DYNASTY, WARRING STATES PERIOD

拍品描述

AN IMPORTANT AND RARE GOLD- AND SILVER-INLAID BRONZE FERRULE, EASTERN ZHOU DYNASTY, WARRING STATES PERIOD China, 475-221 BC. Well cast, the elongated ferrule of gently tapering form, encircled by a collar terminating in a bird with silver inlaid eyes. The surface is richly decorated with gold and silver sheet inlays forming highly stylized zoomorphic motifs, including sinuous bird- and dragon-like creatures with hooked beaks, curling bodies, and spiral appendages, all reserved against a dark patinated ground. Dimensions: Height 10.5 cm Expert’s note: The present piece, similar to other ferrules of the period, was made to cap the lower end of a ceremonial pole or weapon, such as a spear, protecting the wooden shaft while at the same time transforming an essentially functional fitting into an object of considerable prestige. The lavish use of precious-metal inlays would have proclaimed the status and wealth of its owner, while the intricate combination of geometric and scrolling designs demonstrates the remarkable technical sophistication achieved by metalworkers during the late Zhou dynasty. Gold and silver inlay became particularly elaborate during the Warring States period, when increasingly complex surface decoration was applied to weapons, chariot fittings, belt hooks, and other luxury bronzes associated with the aristocratic and military elite. On the present ferrule, the contrast between the dark bronze ground and the brilliantly colored inlays creates an exceptionally rich surface, showcasing both the technical virtuosity and the seemingly boundless creativity of Zhou dynasty artisans. A closely related comparison is provided by the gold- and silver-inlaid bronze ferrule from the renowned Stephen Junkunc III Collection, sold at Sotheby’s New York on 10 September 2019, lot 259, for USD 25,000. While comparable in function and its luxurious use of precious-metal inlay, the Junkunc example is arguably less elaborate in both the complexity and refinement of its decoration than the present piece. Its substantial auction result nevertheless demonstrates the considerable appreciation accorded to these rare and exceptionally sophisticated fittings from the Warring States and early imperial periods. Auction result comparison: Type: Closely related Auction: Sotheby’s New York, 10 September 2019, lot 259 Price: USD 25,000 or approx. EUR 27,000 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing Expert remark: Compare the related gold and silver inlays with similar geometric scrolling designs and intricate openwork elements. Note the near-identical size (11 cm).

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