Description:

China, Warring States period, ca. 475 to 221 BCE. An exceptional curved belt hook (gou), masterfully cast in bronze with high-arched form and elaborate silver inlay throughout the shaft. The surface is intricately decorated with geometric and spiral motifs, created through fine silver wire or foil inlay, now delicately patinated in deep brown and green with encrustation, consistent with burial. The hook terminates in a stylized dragon or feline head, a common zoomorphic feature of elite personal adornment in late Zhou–period weaponry and regalia. A single loop on the reverse served for fastening to a belt or sash. Hooks like this were more than functional objects — they conveyed rank, taste, and power among aristocrats of the Warring States courts. Size: 6.25" L x .375" W (15.9 cm x 1 cm)

Provenance: Ralph T. Coe Center for the Arts, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)

PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.

#196210

  • Condition: Intact and excellent. Greater patination at head. A wonderful example!

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Bidder Can Make Shipping Arrangements, Local Pick-Up, In-House Shipping

August 22, 2025 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer’s premium, as outlined below, and any applicable taxes and shipping.
Buyer's Premium
$0 - $249,999:
26.00%
$250,000+:
22.50%

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 + $500