Gilt Bronze Belt Plaques and Fittings from Song Dynasty

Two sets of gilt bronze belt plaques and fittings, Possibly…
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Two sets of gilt bronze belt plaques and fittings, Possibly Song Dynasty with box, (23). Plaque segments of belt in this form, in metal or jade, were likely influenced by the central Asia nomadic cultures, with known examples dating from as early as Han dynasty through until the 14th century. Typically a set would include a longer plaque with a curved end. For examples of such segments from various periods, see the Metropolitan Museum collection, New York, decorative gilt-bronze and jade belt plaques, Tang dynasty, accession number: 24.102.5 and 1992.165.22a?j; a set of eleven gilt-bronze belt fittings, Central Asia, 14th century, see Sotheby's, Arts of the Islamic, 22 April 2015, London, sale L15220, lot 183; and a parcel-gilt bronze belt plaque, Tang dynasty, Bonhams, Roger Keverne Ltd Moving On, 11 May 2021, London, sale 26397, lot 70

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  • Bronze - An alloy of copper and tin, traditionally in the proportions of about 9 parts of copper to 1 part of tin.

    The discovery of bronze in Western Asia in the 4th century enabled people to create metal objects which were superior to those previoulsy possible because of its strength and hardness, and it has been used throughout the world for weapons, coins, tools, statuary and other decorative items.

    It is very fluid in a molten state, and its hardness, strength when set, and non-corrosive properties makes it most suitable for casting sculpture.
  • Song Dynasty - The Song Dynasty was a ruling dynasty in China from 960 to 1279 AD. It was divided into two periods, the Northern Song (960?1127) and the Southern Song (1127?1279). The emperor was the ultimate authority, but he relied on officials who were selected based on their merit and skills rather than their family background or social status. The Song Dynasty was a period of great artistic and cultural achievements, particularly in the areas of poetry, painting, and calligraphy. The Chinese invented the printing press during this period, which revolutionized the spread of knowledge and ideas. During the Song Dynasty, China had a prosperous economy and was a centre of international trade, particularly in luxury goods such as silk, tea, and porcelain. The use of paper money became more widespread during this period, facilitating commerce and trade.  

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