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Monster Face: Door Ring Holder (Pushou)
✓ Authenticity guarantee · ✓ Specialist condition report · ✓ Insured worldwide shipping · ✓ Private-room viewing
This gilt bronze Door Ring Holder is in the form of a monster head with curving horns, protruding eyes, three-clawed paws, curling beard, and flame-shaped hair. The tongue dangles from the mouth, in which the creature originally grasped a ring. While it had a practical function as a door knocker, the intimidating form could also frighten away both intruders and evil spirits.
| Artist / Maker | Anonymous, Northern Dynasties period (386–581 CE) |
|---|---|
| Date | 500s |
| Culture / Origin | China, Henan province, Northern Dynasties period (386–581 CE) |
| Medium | gilt bronze |
| Dimensions | Overall: 13.6 x 20 cm (5 3/8 x 7 7/8 in.) |
| Department | Chinese Art |
| Type | Metalwork |
About the Artist
Provenance & Source
Image & data: Cleveland Museum of Art, CC0 / Public Domain.
Condition
A detailed condition report and high-resolution photography are available from our specialists in advance of the sale.
Shipping & Collection
Fine-art shipping with climate control and full insurance to over 120 countries; collection by appointment.
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