A large Chinese gilt bronze oil lamp in the shape of a kneeling figure, after a Han Dynasty example

H.: 59,5 cm (incl. stand)
H.: 47,5 cm (the bronze)

Weight: 22,7 kg (excl. wooden stand)

The kneeling figure holds an oil lamp whose smoke would rise inside the hollow sleeve, to keep the room free from soot. Various inscriptions are visible.

Ref.: Treasures from the bronze age of China, page 154, for the original after which our current example was made. (see added scans)

Provenance:
- A Dutch private collection.
- Sotheby's, Amsterdam, 8 December 2002, lot 647. (sold €29.800) (see added scans)

Condition: Overall in good condition, lacking a small piece to the figure's head where two drilled holes are visible.