Intricate stamped brass color design on a darker background that have Chinese characters relating to writing. One side has designs of birds with branches. One panel having a cartouche with calligraphy.A medium thickness metal sheath over plaster interior to be used to weigh down scrolls or calligraphy paper. The metal is probably copper with a brass or bronze patina. You can see the copper showing through on the sides with the bird designs. The birds are in different poses. One sits in a magnolia tree above bamboo and one is flying into the magnolia tree. They face each other. The other side of each weight has characters relating to writing or books. There are elaborate flourishes and scrolls around the characters. They have a nice weight. The end of the weight with the flying bird has some Chinese characters that Ia€?m unable to translate.MEASUREMENTS Each weight measures 11a€ (27.9 cm) long x 1 5/8a€ (4.1 cm) wide x 5/8a€ (1.6 cm) tall. Total weight 1 lb 0.3 oz (465 g)CONDITION The metal has dents and oxidization spots. The plaster inside both weights is broken and rattles around. One corner of the scroll with the resting bird has a hole that lets plaster dust out. There are areas where the underlying copper color is showing through the surface patina. They have a nice dark brown patina.A nice pair of old antique scroll weights that will add age and substance to viewing a scroll or calligraphy, or just resting on your desk.Item ID: A-1452