21st Nov, 2025 13:00
Fine Antiquities & Ancient Art
111
A RARE MINIATURE BONE FIGURE OF A DANCER, LATE SHANG TO WESTERN ZHOU DYNASTY, CIRCA 1200–771 BC
Sold for €2,860
including Buyer's Premium
China. Finely carved in slender stylized form, the figure depicted with one arm raised above the head in a dynamic dancing gesture, the other bent gracefully at the side, wearing a long, tapering robe incised with simple linear folds, the hair gathered high in a neat coiffure. The abstract proportions and minimalist modeling evoke an early aesthetic of rhythmic movement and ritual expression characteristic of the late Bronze Age.
Provenance: From the personal Estate of Edith and Joel Frankel, New York, USA. E & J Frankel was a major New York gallery specializing in Asian Art since 1967. Run by Edith (1939-2012) and Joel Frankel (1937-2018), it was one of the oldest galleries in the United States focusing exclusively on Asian art. Leaders in their field, the Frankels traveled the world in search of Asian art treasures and educated the general public about their shared passion. Their gallery on Madison Avenue in New York City became a local institution, best known for its regular schedule of innovative thematic exhibitions, and frequently visited by the biggest names in the field, such as Eskenazi, Ellsworth, Junkunc, and the Alsdorfs.
Condition: Very good condition, with expected ancient wear, weathering, and minor material degradation consistent with long-term burial. Small chips to the back corner, minute nibbling along the edges, and light surface scratches and abrasions. The surface exhibits a fine, naturally developed patina, enhancing the piece’s appealing ancient character.
Weight: 5 g
Dimensions: Height 7.5 cm
With a fitted base and box, dating from the first half of the 20th century. (3)
Expert’s Note:
Bone figures such as this rare example from the late Shang to Western Zhou period (circa 1200–771 BC) reflect the early emergence of expressive human representation in Chinese art.
Skillfully carved in slender, stylized form, the figure raises one arm above the head in what may be a ritual or dance gesture, the other bent at the side, with the long tapering robe defined by fine incised lines. Works of this kind likely held ceremonial significance, embodying the movement and vitality associated with ritual performance during the late Bronze Age.
Although small in scale, the carving displays remarkable refinement and balance. The elongated proportions and simplified modeling convey rhythmic grace, while the surface bears a smooth, naturally developed patina from long burial—testament to the enduring sophistication of early Chinese craftsmanship.
China. Finely carved in slender stylized form, the figure depicted with one arm raised above the head in a dynamic dancing gesture, the other bent gracefully at the side, wearing a long, tapering robe incised with simple linear folds, the hair gathered high in a neat coiffure. The abstract proportions and minimalist modeling evoke an early aesthetic of rhythmic movement and ritual expression characteristic of the late Bronze Age.
Provenance: From the personal Estate of Edith and Joel Frankel, New York, USA. E & J Frankel was a major New York gallery specializing in Asian Art since 1967. Run by Edith (1939-2012) and Joel Frankel (1937-2018), it was one of the oldest galleries in the United States focusing exclusively on Asian art. Leaders in their field, the Frankels traveled the world in search of Asian art treasures and educated the general public about their shared passion. Their gallery on Madison Avenue in New York City became a local institution, best known for its regular schedule of innovative thematic exhibitions, and frequently visited by the biggest names in the field, such as Eskenazi, Ellsworth, Junkunc, and the Alsdorfs.
Condition: Very good condition, with expected ancient wear, weathering, and minor material degradation consistent with long-term burial. Small chips to the back corner, minute nibbling along the edges, and light surface scratches and abrasions. The surface exhibits a fine, naturally developed patina, enhancing the piece’s appealing ancient character.
Weight: 5 g
Dimensions: Height 7.5 cm
With a fitted base and box, dating from the first half of the 20th century. (3)
Expert’s Note:
Bone figures such as this rare example from the late Shang to Western Zhou period (circa 1200–771 BC) reflect the early emergence of expressive human representation in Chinese art.
Skillfully carved in slender, stylized form, the figure raises one arm above the head in what may be a ritual or dance gesture, the other bent at the side, with the long tapering robe defined by fine incised lines. Works of this kind likely held ceremonial significance, embodying the movement and vitality associated with ritual performance during the late Bronze Age.
Although small in scale, the carving displays remarkable refinement and balance. The elongated proportions and simplified modeling convey rhythmic grace, while the surface bears a smooth, naturally developed patina from long burial—testament to the enduring sophistication of early Chinese craftsmanship.
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