Chariot shaft socket, 13th-12th century BCE
Unknown artist, Chinaexpand_more
Bronzeexpand_more
Bequest of Alfred F. Pillsburyexpand_more 50.46.13
Not on Viewexpand_more
This bronze object served as a fitting on a horse-drawn chariot. The chariot accompanied the deceased at burial and presumably served him or her in the afterlife. The décor of this extraordinary object is executed in high relief and partly in the round. On its base is a realistically shaped head of a water buffalo, whose body is splayed on the shield above the socket. On each side of the cylinder is a creature with a human head, shown kneeling in profile and with hands uplifted. Similarly posed animal-like figures appear on other Shang bronzes. These may serve as protectors, progenitors, or totems of the clan who cast the vessel.
Details
- Title
- Chariot shaft socket
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 50.46.13
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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