Lot 454. A rare archaic bronze dragon-headed ladle, Han Dynasty; 21cm (8 1/2in) long. Estimate £800 - £1,200. Sold for £ 5,100 (€ 5,950). © Bonhams

The shaft elegantly cast in an exaggerated curve and terminating with an open-mouthed crested dragon head at the top of the handle, another smaller beast-head relief cast at the junction of the shaft with the plain deep oval bowl, the surface with a consistent pale green patination, wood stand.

Note: See a related example in the collection of Dr Paul Singer, illustrated by E.Schloss, Art of the Han, New York, 1979, no.84; see another archaic bronze ladle, Han dynasty, illustrated in Chinesische Kunst, Berlin, 1929, no.78.

Bonhams. Roger Keverne Ltd Moving On (Part II), London, New Bond Street, 7 Jun 2021