Buddhist Ritual Bell (1300s CE)
This bronze vajra ritual bell from Korea’s Goryeo period (1300s) features a five-pronged vajra handle and incised Buddhist motifs
Bronze
Artifacts made from bronze, an alloy of copper and tin that revolutionized ancient technology. This category includes sculptures, weapons, and decorative items that highlight bronze’s strength and beauty.
Shiva As Lord of Music (c.1000 CE)
Cast c. 1000 CE, this Chola bronze from Tamil Nadu shows Shiva with vina, axe, and antelope.
Gilt Microscope (1745-1765 CE)
Crafted c. 1745–1765, this French microscope with gilt bronze mounts blends science and rococo elegance.
Gilt Candelabrum (c.1750 CE)
Cast c. 1750, this French gilt bronze candelabrum blends Rococo curves with early Neoclassical lines.
Recumbent Bull (700s CE)
Cast in the 700s CE, this gilt bronze bull from China’s Tang dynasty rests with detailed neck folds.
Athena Mirror Box (330–270 BCE)
Cast 330–270 BCE, this Greek bronze mirror with gilding bears a riveted Athena relief on its lid.
Naga Finial (1100s CE)
Cast during the Angkor period (9th–15th centuries), this bronze piece shows a multiheaded naga.
Naga Enthroned Buddha (1100s CE)
Cast around the 12th century, this bronze figure from Cambodia seats a meditating Buddha under a multi-headed naga hood.
Corinthian Helmet (625–550 BCE)
Forged between 625 and 550 BCE, this corinthian bronze helmet from ancient Greece shields a hoplite’s head with eye slits and a neck guard.