Sino-Vietnamese Bronze Armour - 19.5 cm
Starting bid
€ 1
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Selected by Peter Reynaers
Has nearly 30 years’ experience and moderated multiple online art research groups.
Estimate € 750 - € 900
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Description from the seller
RARE!
Breastplate Plaque
Han-Viet Period
(North Vietnam, Dong Son culture under influence and administration of the Han dynasty)
( circa 1st century BCE – 2nd century CE)
Cast bronze
19.5 cm x 19.5 cm x 2.5 cm (curved)
This rare quadrangular bronze fragment originally formed a central element of pectoral or dorsal protection, integrated into plate armor or fixed on a thick leather support. The main decorative scheme is structured around broad flat diagonal-crossed bands, creating a powerful diamond motif. This geometric réseau delineates recessed compartments, ornamented with fine incised parallel and concentric lines that evoke stylized chevrons. The border is defined by a double straight moulding framing a frieze of motifs repeated with great rigidity. The presence of lugs or peripheral partial perforations suggests the original assembly system by rivets or leather cords.
This rigid, symmetrical ornamental vocabulary is characteristic of the production of military bronzes in 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 testifies to mastery of bronze casting. The thickness and density of the metal confirm its defensive function as real protection rather than purely honorary or funerary.
Surface mineralization, particularly visible on the inner face and the edges, developed during prolonged burial in a humid and acidic environment, typical of archaeological contexts in the Red River delta. The metal alteration preserved the clarity of the incised decoration while adding a rich and authentic texture to the object. Fragmentary. Pronounced trench oxidation with significant copper concretions, including green malachite, azurite and cuprite. The patina alternates between soft gray-green tones and darker brown areas. Heavily cleaned by the former owner.
Seller's Story
Kanaka The Collection is a Portugal-based web gallery specialising in Asian art, with a particular focus on the arts of Southeast Asia.
With over 20 years of experience and passion for Asian art, we offer a carefully curated selection of sculptures, ceramics and works of art from across Asia, chosen for their artistic quality, authenticity and historical interest.
Every piece is professionally packed, and we ship worldwide to collectors and institutions.
We remain personally available to collectors before and after each acquisition.
Translated by Google TranslateRARE!
Breastplate Plaque
Han-Viet Period
(North Vietnam, Dong Son culture under influence and administration of the Han dynasty)
( circa 1st century BCE – 2nd century CE)
Cast bronze
19.5 cm x 19.5 cm x 2.5 cm (curved)
This rare quadrangular bronze fragment originally formed a central element of pectoral or dorsal protection, integrated into plate armor or fixed on a thick leather support. The main decorative scheme is structured around broad flat diagonal-crossed bands, creating a powerful diamond motif. This geometric réseau delineates recessed compartments, ornamented with fine incised parallel and concentric lines that evoke stylized chevrons. The border is defined by a double straight moulding framing a frieze of motifs repeated with great rigidity. The presence of lugs or peripheral partial perforations suggests the original assembly system by rivets or leather cords.
This rigid, symmetrical ornamental vocabulary is characteristic of the production of military bronzes in 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 testifies to mastery of bronze casting. The thickness and density of the metal confirm its defensive function as real protection rather than purely honorary or funerary.
Surface mineralization, particularly visible on the inner face and the edges, developed during prolonged burial in a humid and acidic environment, typical of archaeological contexts in the Red River delta. The metal alteration preserved the clarity of the incised decoration while adding a rich and authentic texture to the object. Fragmentary. Pronounced trench oxidation with significant copper concretions, including green malachite, azurite and cuprite. The patina alternates between soft gray-green tones and darker brown areas. Heavily cleaned by the former owner.
Seller's Story
Kanaka The Collection is a Portugal-based web gallery specialising in Asian art, with a particular focus on the arts of Southeast Asia.
With over 20 years of experience and passion for Asian art, we offer a carefully curated selection of sculptures, ceramics and works of art from across Asia, chosen for their artistic quality, authenticity and historical interest.
Every piece is professionally packed, and we ship worldwide to collectors and institutions.
We remain personally available to collectors before and after each acquisition.
Translated by Google TranslateDetails
Era
Before 1400
Culture
Sino-Vietnamese
Century/timeframe
2th - 3th c.
Number of objects
1
Material
Bronze
Acquired from
Private collection
Country of origin
Vietnam
Year acquired
1977
Country acquired from
Belgium
Condition
Good condition, see description
Previous owner acquired from
Private collection
Height
19.5 cm
Sold with stand
No
Previous owner - year acquired
2021
Width
19.5 cm
Previous owner - country acquired from
Belgium
Depth
2.5 cm
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
Sold by
Disclaimer
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
