Early Chinese Brass Steelyard Balance | Crane and Ship Weights

拍品描述

Ca. 1872–1882 CE. East Asia, China, Qing Dynasty to early Republic period, circa 1880 to 1930 CE. A brass steelyard balance, the long tubular beam terminating in a hook for suspending goods, the opposing end fitted with a suspension collar and fulcrum. A compound counterweight, cast from a copper-rich alloy, hangs beneath the beam in the form of an elongated bird, likely a crane, above a secondary weight in the form of a stylized ship riding curling waves, its surface with relief detailing and small incised marks. Size: 56" L x 1.2" W x 21.5" H (142.2 cm x 3 cm x 54.6 cm) Size: 21.5" H x 56" L x 1.2" W (54.6 cm H x 142.2 cm L x 3.0 cm W). Above the suspended weight, a coin-form plaque with a square central aperture bears an auspicious inscription, likely a traditional prosperity phrase meaning "to attract wealth and bring in treasure." Such expressions were commonly used in commercial contexts, reflecting both practical concerns and a belief in fortune and favorable outcomes. The integration of this charm into a weighing device transforms the object from a simple instrument into a subtle talisman of success in trade. Steelyard balances of this type were essential tools in Chinese markets, used for weighing goods ranging from grain and medicinal materials to metals and textiles. The system relied on the careful adjustment of the counterweight along the beam, a method refined over centuries and central to everyday commerce. Here, that functional design is elevated through decorative flourish. The bird and ship, suspended in careful balance, lend the piece a sculptural quality rarely seen in more utilitarian examples. It stands as both a working instrument and a symbolic object - a reminder that in trade, precision mattered, but a touch of good fortune was always welcome. SHIPPING: We coordinate worldwide shipping in-house through specialist international forwarders experienced with fine art and antiquities customs manifests. International buyers must confirm, prior to bidding, that their country's customs authority will accept the item. All duties, taxes, clearance fees, and any costs arising from customs delays, seizures, re-export, returns, or loss in transit are the buyer's sole responsibility. Artemis assumes no liability for items refused entry, detained, or lost after export. We cannot ship ancient items to their country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.).For those not using LiveAuctioneers' Live Ship program, Artemis Fine Arts offers expert in-house packing and worldwide shipping. With over 20 years of experience, our team provides careful, reliable, and affordable service. For a quick quote on this lot, please contact support@artemisfinearts.com prior to the auction, or call 720-890-7700. PAYMENT EXCEPTION: For clients not previously established with Artemis, payment for all gold, precious metal, and gemstone lots must be made by bank wire transfer or certified bank check/money order, without exception. Item #186376

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