Lot 56. A group of four silver and gold artifacts, Tang–Song dynasty (618-1279); 7 cm length of cover; 7.3 cm diam of bowl; 10.8 cm length of pin; 1.6 cm) width of ornament (4). Sold for US$5,737.50 (Estimate US$1,200 - 1,500). © Bonhams 2001-2023

The silver cover of domed oval shape finely chased with a pair of birds in flight over dense foliage and 'fish roe' ring-punched ground, encircled by a running border of chased feathery scroll, the design and border parcel-gilt, made to serve as the cover of a natural shell to be used as a box; the small silver bowl of steeply rounded sides with a repoussé medallion of scrolling foliage in the center and a band of 'classic scroll' below the rim, the design picked out with gilding; the hairpin made from gold sheet, with two floral reserves molded in shallow relief near the open end and with square-cut gold 'teeth' possibly to receive a gemstone; and the small gold earring cast with flowers and foliage on both sides, a wire loop opening on one end for attachment.

Provenance: From the Collection of Dr. Arthur M. Sackler (1913-1987), acquired from C.T. Loo / Frank Caro, New York, in the 1970s
Christie's New York, 24 March 2011, lot 1221.

Bonhams. J. J. Lally & Co. Fine Chinese Works of Art, New York, March 20, 2023