Page 235 - Bonhams Chinese Art NYC Nov 9 2017

167

The exotic form of the present lot appears to have
emulated earlier examples, which showcased the
rapid cultural interaction and integration between
China proper and the nomadic Stepps during
the early dynasties of China. Compare a related
bronze water dropper, Han dynasty, illustrated in
The Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace
Museum: Small Refined Articles of the Study,
Shanghai, 2009, p.192, no.178.
168*
A RARE SILVER SHELL-SHAPED COSMETIC
BOX AND COVER
Tang Dynasty
Formed as a hinged clam-shell finely chased with
foliate quatrefoils and leafy tendrils, all reserved on a
ring-punched ground, Japanese wood box.
6.8cm (2 5/8in) wide. (3).

£6,000 - 8,000
CNY53,000 - 71,000

唐 銀蔓草紋蛤形盒

Silver boxes in the form of clam shells were an
innovation of the Tang dynasty and were used to
hold cosmetic powder. Compare a similar silver shell- 168
shaped box and cover, late Tang – Song dynasty,
of similar form but decorated with birds perched on
curling tendrils, illustrated by B.Gyllensvärd in Chinese
Gold, Silver and Porcelain: The Kempe Collection,
New York, 1971, p.61, no.62.

A related silver clam-shell box and cover, Tang
dynasty, was sold at Sotheby’s London, 13 May
2015, lot 16.

For details of the charges payable in addition to the final Hammer Price of each Lot
please refer to paragraphs 7 & 8 of the Notice to Bidders at the back of the catalogue. FINE CHINESE ART | 233