No. 94057201

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Talisman  (No Reserve Price)
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€ 1
2 days ago

Talisman (No Reserve Price)

A rare collection of three intricately carved stone artifacts from the Eastern Zhou Dynasty (770–256 BCE), likely used as pendants or charms, each displaying exceptional craftsmanship, decorative motifs, and archaic script—an extraordinary testament to early Chinese symbolism and ritual artistry. This remarkable set of three Eastern Zhou Dynasty stone artifacts reflects the highly sophisticated lapidary traditions of the period. Likely used as pendants, charms, or ritual objects, these finely detailed carvings feature symbolic designs, decorative engravings, and inscribed script, reinforcing their cultural, spiritual, and artistic significance. 1. Dragon Pendant – Blackish Stone with Curled Tail Finely carved in the form of a small dragon, symbolizing power, protection, and auspicious fortune in early Chinese culture. The head, belly, and curled tail are clearly defined, exhibiting a graceful yet dynamic composition. Intricately decorated on both sides, enhancing its visual and symbolic richness. The dragon motif, a sacred symbol of strength and divine authority, suggests this may have been an amulet for protection and prosperity. 2. Sharp-Edged Pendant with Hole & Archaic Script (Dark Brownish Stone) Distinctive elongated form, tapering to a sharp point on the right side, possibly symbolizing a blade or ritual implement. Intricately decorated on both sides, featuring swirling patterns and stylized motifs. Inscribed with archaic script, adding an element of mysticism and ritual significance. The drilled hole suggests it may have been worn as a pendant or suspended in a ceremonial setting. 3. Lotus Petal-Shaped Pendant with Archaic Script (Orange-Toned Stone) Delicately carved into the form of a lotus petal, a sacred Buddhist and Daoist symbol of purity and enlightenment. Features a tapered edge on one side, possibly indicating a functional or symbolic cutting element. One side richly decorated with flowing ornamental carvings, while the reverse side bears archaic script, enhancing its spiritual and artistic depth. The presence of a drilled hole suggests it may have been used as a talisman or protective charm. Each of these carvings reflects the cultural complexity and artistic refinement of the Eastern Zhou Dynasty, a period marked by profound spiritual beliefs, intricate craftsmanship, and the use of stone objects in high-status rituals and burials. Their symbolic designs and inscriptions suggest they were more than mere ornaments—rather, they held deep spiritual or ceremonial significance. Condition: Intricate carvings remain well-defined, showcasing fine craftsmanship and early Chinese artistic traditions. Natural patina and surface weathering, indicative of age and ritual use. Minor wear consistent with antiquity, enhancing their authenticity and historical character. Provenance: Private Collection, acquired from a specialist in early Chinese artifacts.

No. 94057201

Sold
Talisman  (No Reserve Price)

Talisman (No Reserve Price)

A rare collection of three intricately carved stone artifacts from the Eastern Zhou Dynasty (770–256 BCE), likely used as pendants or charms, each displaying exceptional craftsmanship, decorative motifs, and archaic script—an extraordinary testament to early Chinese symbolism and ritual artistry.

This remarkable set of three Eastern Zhou Dynasty stone artifacts reflects the highly sophisticated lapidary traditions of the period. Likely used as pendants, charms, or ritual objects, these finely detailed carvings feature symbolic designs, decorative engravings, and inscribed script, reinforcing their cultural, spiritual, and artistic significance.

1. Dragon Pendant – Blackish Stone with Curled Tail
Finely carved in the form of a small dragon, symbolizing power, protection, and auspicious fortune in early Chinese culture.
The head, belly, and curled tail are clearly defined, exhibiting a graceful yet dynamic composition.
Intricately decorated on both sides, enhancing its visual and symbolic richness.
The dragon motif, a sacred symbol of strength and divine authority, suggests this may have been an amulet for protection and prosperity.

2. Sharp-Edged Pendant with Hole & Archaic Script (Dark Brownish Stone)
Distinctive elongated form, tapering to a sharp point on the right side, possibly symbolizing a blade or ritual implement.
Intricately decorated on both sides, featuring swirling patterns and stylized motifs.
Inscribed with archaic script, adding an element of mysticism and ritual significance.
The drilled hole suggests it may have been worn as a pendant or suspended in a ceremonial setting.

3. Lotus Petal-Shaped Pendant with Archaic Script (Orange-Toned Stone)
Delicately carved into the form of a lotus petal, a sacred Buddhist and Daoist symbol of purity and enlightenment.
Features a tapered edge on one side, possibly indicating a functional or symbolic cutting element.
One side richly decorated with flowing ornamental carvings, while the reverse side bears archaic script, enhancing its spiritual and artistic depth.
The presence of a drilled hole suggests it may have been used as a talisman or protective charm.

Each of these carvings reflects the cultural complexity and artistic refinement of the Eastern Zhou Dynasty, a period marked by profound spiritual beliefs, intricate craftsmanship, and the use of stone objects in high-status rituals and burials. Their symbolic designs and inscriptions suggest they were more than mere ornaments—rather, they held deep spiritual or ceremonial significance.

Condition:

Intricate carvings remain well-defined, showcasing fine craftsmanship and early Chinese artistic traditions.
Natural patina and surface weathering, indicative of age and ritual use.
Minor wear consistent with antiquity, enhancing their authenticity and historical character.

Provenance:
Private Collection, acquired from a specialist in early Chinese artifacts.

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