China, 206 BC to 220 AD. Cast as a recumbent dog with its head turned backward, the face with bushy eyebrows and large snout, and the tail curled upwards.

Provenance: French trade. Acquired from a private collection.
Condition: Very good condition, commensurate with age. Extensive wear, nicks, scratches, minor losses, and dents. The bronze with a sturdy and naturally grown patina with malachite and cuprite encrustations.

Weight: 137 g
Dimensions: Length 6.4 cm

Weights of this type, made during the Warring States period and Han dynasty, appear to have been used to hold down the corners of woven mats used for seating or for the board game liubo. They were usually cast from precious bronze to convey the high status of the owner, and made in the shape of animals, often coiled to form a circle, or in the shape of human figures, and even mountains.

Dogs are a popular subject in Han dynasty art as it was common practice to bury pottery models of dogs in graves, in the belief that they would keep the deceased humans company in the afterlife. Gilt-bronze weights in the form of dogs, however, are extremely rare.

Auction result comparison:
Type: Related
Auction: Christie's New York, 24 September 2020, lot 888
Price: USD 32,500 or approx. EUR 35,500 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing
Description: A gilt-bronze circular mat weight, China, Han dynasty (206 BC - AD 220)
Expert remark: Compare the related manner of casting, gilding, and compact form. Note the size (8.6 cm).

Auction result comparison:
Type: Related
Auction: Bonhams London, 12 May 2016, lot 7
Price: GBP 13,750 or approx. EUR 23,000 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing
Description: A rare silver-and-gilt bronze 'tiger' weight, Han dynasty
Expert remark: Compare the related manner of casting, gilding, compact form and size (6.7 cm). Note the silver inlays.