Chinese Han Tri-Coloured Stone Amuletic Plaque with Tiger

HAN DYNASTY, CIRCA 200 B.C.-200 A.D.

2 1/2 in. (20.3 grams, 65 mm).

Domed plaque with a tiger design; accompanied by an old scholarly note, typed and signed by W.G. Lambert, late Professor of Assyriology, University of Birmingham, 1970-1993, which states: 'Relief Plaque of Black, Cream and Brown Stone, 28 x 66 x 11mm. This is oval, with flat face and back that rises to a pierced ridge. The design shows a tiger down on its front paws, with head turned backwards, jaws open and tail raised over rump. This surely comes within the confines of Chinese art, and a date within the Han Dynasty, c. 200 B.C. to 200 A.D. is the most likely. It is an interesting piece, though the purpose is not immediately clear. The holes at the ends are clearly for attachment, but the raised back means that it could not have been fixed to a smooth surface. One end is damaged, otherwise it is in good condition.'

Provenance

Acquired in the late 1980s-early 1990s.
Ex property of a West London businessman.
Academically researched and catalogued by the late Professor Lambert in the early 1990s.

CONDITION

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LOT 2179