Warring States Period Of domed form with arches front and back, the sides with a pair of mythical bird panels above a pair of loop staples, the front with a taotie mask, stand. 20.5cm (8in) high. (2).
戰國 鳥紋銅盔
Provenance: Ariadne Galleries, New York and London A distinguished American private collection, acquired from the above 9 November 2017.
來源： Ariadne畫廊，紐約和倫敦 顯赫美國私人收藏，從上處獲得於2017年11月9日
A related bronze helmet, Eastern Zhou dynasty, is illustrated by Cheng Dong and Zhong Shao-yi, Ancient Chinese Weapons: A Collection of Pictures, Beijing, 1990, pl.12, no.4-157. The earliest bronze helmets in China date back to the Shang dynasty, featuring extended neck and ear protection. These helmets were often adorned with taotie masks and animal motifs, designed to instil fear in opponents. For two examples unearthed in Anyang, see ibid., p.40.
Compare with a related archaic bronze helmet, Warring states period, which was sold at Sotheby's Hong Kong, 19 January 2023, lot 3053.
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