Chunyu bell - 錞于, China, Warring Kingdom (481-221 B.C.) or H - Lot 142

Chunyu bell - 錞于, China, Warring Kingdom (481-221 B.C.) or Han (220-206 B.C.) period Rounded in cross-section, widened at the top to form a domed shoulder and surmounted by a narrowed flared neck. On the top of the instrument, a round plate topped by a molded tiger acts as a suspension ring. The animal is depicted standing with its mouth open, its jaw, legs and belly adorned with a classical archaic frieze. This iconography is linked to the ancient Ba ethnic group, who venerated the white tiger as a typical decorative ornament. Height: 50 cm Provenance : Sotheby's, April 15, 1980, lot 54 (label). The chunyu bell is an ancient Chinese military musical instrument, often used in conjunction with drums to command advance and retreat in wartime. It was mainly used on the battlefield to command and stimulate troops.