A FINE PAIR OF SILVER-INLAID BELT HOOKS

A FINE PAIR OF SILVER-INLAID BELT HOOKS China, Han Dynasty (202 BC - 220 AD) and Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). Both cast with the typical raised chilong head-form hook, the underside with a circular button. The first of bronze, dated to the Han Dynasty, the curved shaft is finely encrusted in silver with an intricate geometric design and ‘stippling’, the second of brass, dated to the Ming Dynasty, thinly inlaid in silver on the shaft and hook with a geometric pattern, the underside further inlaid with archaistic characters. Condition: Fine condition considering the age, with signs of erosion as well as patina with areas of malachite green and losses to the silver inlay. Provenance: French private collection, according to the current owner acquired from a collection of a former French colonel based in China before World Warr II. Weight: 54.8 and 28.9 g Dimensions: Length 10.7 and 9.5 cm 5% or 13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer’s premium – only for buyers within the EU.