Han Bronze Armour - 19.5 cm

RARE!
Breastplate Plate
Han-Vietnam Period
(North Vietnam, Dong Son culture under influence and administration of the Han dynasty)
(otherwise: approx. 1st century BCE – 2nd century CE)
Cast bronze
19.5 cm x 19.5 cm x 2.5 cm (curved)

This rare quadrangular fragment in bronze originally formed a central element of pectoral or dorsal protection, integrated into plate armor or fixed to a thick leather backing. The principal decoration is structured around wide flat diagonally crossed bands, creating a strong diamond motif. This geometric network defines recessed compartments, adorned with fine incised parallel and concentric lines evoking stylized chevron patterns. The border is delineated by a double straight molding framing a frieze of highly regular repetitive motifs. The presence of bosses or peripheral partial perforations suggests the original assembly system by rivets or leather laces.

This rigid, symmetrical ornamental vocabulary is characteristic of the military bronze production of the Han-Viet sphere, where the Dong Son technological tradition merges with the organization and graphic style of the armies of the Han Empire.

The piece attests to the mastery of bronze casting. The thickness and density of the metal confirm its real defensive function rather than purely honorific or funerary.

Surface mineralization, particularly visible on the inner face and on the edges, developed during prolonged burial in a humid and acidic environment, typical of archaeological contexts in the Red River delta. Metal alteration has preserved the clarity of the incised decoration while adding a rich and authentic texture to the object. Fragmentary. Significant excavation oxidation with substantial copper concretions, including green malachite, blue azurite and cuprite. The patina alternates between soft gray-green tones and darker brown areas. Heavily cleaned by the former owner.