Lot 2026. An unusual bronze chariot fitting, Western Zhou dynasty (circa 1100-771 BC); 4¼ in. (10.9 cm.) long. Estimate USD 2,000 - USD 3,000. Price Realized USD 2,500. © Christie's Images Ltd 2014. 

The flat, oblong top of the hollow fitting is flat-cast depicting two dragons with long up-turned snouts and abstract bodies that curve around to fill the space. The circular socket end is pierced with two holes on either side, with two small pins or brads piercing the walls near the edge. There is malachite encrustation allover the fitting, box.

Provenance: Acquired in Hong Kong, 1995.
Sze Yuan Tang Collection, Hong Kong.

Exhibited: The Glorious Traditions of Chinese Bronzes, Singapore, 2000, no. 37.
Metal, Wood, Water, Fire and Earth, Hong Kong Museum of Art, 2002-2006.

Note: This unusual fitting would have been a forward-facing cap on the central shaft between the two middle horses of a horse-drawn chariot, such as the one illustrated in a line drawing of a reconstructed chariot of Zhou dynasty date, illustrated in Kaogu, 1980:5, p. 454, fig. 14.

Christie's. Fine Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, New York, 20 - 21 March 2014