A Gilt-bronze Dragon-head Finial
HAN DYNASTY (206 BC-AD 220)
This gilt-bronze dragon-head finial from the Han Dynasty exemplifies the sophisticated metalworking techniques and symbolic iconography of ancient China, where dragons represented imperial power and cosmic forces. The piece likely served as an ornamental terminal adorning the roof ridge or furniture of an elite residence or ceremonial object, showcasing the Han period's mastery of bronze casting and gilding processes. The naturalistic yet stylized rendering of the dragon's features reflects the cultural values and aesthetic refinement characteristic of this transformative imperial era in Chinese civilization.
- Spotted At
- Auction House · Christie's
Notes
LITERATURE J. J. Lally & Co., Arts of the Han Dynasty, New York, 1998, no. 29. S. Moore, "In the Galleries", Art+Auction, March 1998. W. Moonan, "Antiques: Simplicity in Bronze", The New York Times, 27 March 1998, section E, p. 41. EXHIBITED New York, J. J. Lally & Co., Arts of the Han Dynasty, 25 March-11 April 1998. Conditions of sale Brought to you by Rufus Chen (陳嘉安) Head of Sale, AVP, Specialist Check the condition report or get in touch for additional information about this ASIANARTNY@CHRISTIES.COM +1 212 636 2180 VIEW CONDITION REPORT LOT ESSAY This finely cast fitting is very similar to one excavated from Han tomb no. 2 at Ganquan in Hanjiang, Jiangsu province, and illustrated in Wenwu, 1981:11, pl. 2, fig. 5, and p. 6, fig. 15. See, also, the similar fitting from the Eastern Han tomb of Xianyu Huang (d. AD 125) near Lancheng in Wuqing county, Hebei province, illustrated in Kaogu Xuebao, 1982:3, pl. 19, fig. 2. Compare another similar fitting formerly in the collection of Adolphe Stoclet (1871-1949), sold at A Collecting Journey: The Jane and Leopold Swergold Collection; Sotheby's New York, 18 March 2025, lot 145.
🔨 Auction Lot
Important Chinese Art
March 26, 2026
Estimate: $30,000 – $50,000
Sold: $48,260
Lot 676
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