Artwork Page for Mat Weight in the Form of a Bear

Details / Information for Mat Weight in the Form of a Bear

Mat Weight in the Form of a Bear

202 BCE–9 CE

China, Western Han dynasty

(206 BCE–8 CE)
Medium
gilt bronze
Measurements
Overall: 15.7 x 14.6 x 17.3 cm (6 3/16 x 5 3/4 x 6 13/16 in.)
Credit Line
John L. Severance Fund 1994.203
Public Domain
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Location
241B Arts of Ancient China
Print
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Did You Know?

Bear imagery, which symbolized heroic power, was particularly popular during the Han dynasty.

Description

The bear imagery was particularly popular during the Han dynasty and was a metaphor of heroic power. This heavy, solid bear was probably used as a mat weight; other small squatting bears often served as the legs of vessels.
A gilt bronze sculpture depicts a seated bear, much of its gilding worn away to reveal dark green and brown oxidation. The bear leans forward with its mouth wide open, front legs spread and one hind leg tucked beneath its body. It has small, rounded ears, wide-set eyes, and textured claws on each of its three visible paws.

Mat Weight in the Form of a Bear

202 BCE–9 CE

China, Western Han dynasty (206 BCE–8 CE)

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