Priceless Past ancient bronze pottery figures

Eastern Zhou Dagger Axe with Inscribed Nei


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Directory: Antiques: Regional Art: Ancient World: Pre AD 1000: Item # 1136144
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This rare, triangular blade ge appears to have been exposed to a process during manufacture that created a mottled appearance on the surface. This surface treatment is known to have been performed on pieces manufactured in southeast Asia during the Eastern Zhou period. Though its original lustre is long lost, evidence of its former beauty is still evident on portions of the blade. The overall patina is a deep brown mixed with shades of green. There are some losses to the edges of the blade and to a portion of the nei edge as well. Otherwise the piece seems to be very solid and presently stable. There are two circular perforations; one on the nei and one in the yuan. There is a central reinforcing rib on the yuan. The lan in slightly arched with two elongated lashing perforation near each outer edge. The nei also has four linear ridges on both nei surfaces that run parallel to each other and perpendicular to the lan. This piece also has a single character inscribed on the nei on one side. Like similar published references, this piece was purported to have been unearthed in modern day Sichuan Province. This specimen is likely an Eastern Zhou piece that retains characteristics of much earlier designs. It is, however, possible that it dates to the Western Zhou. The total weight of this specimen is 316 grams. The total length is 21.3 cm. More images available on request.