Ancient Chinese Marble Frog Fetches $1.2 Million at Sotheby's
A remarkably preserved marble frog sculpture from China's Shang Dynasty, estimated to be 3,000 years old, has sold for an impressive $1.2 million at Sotheby's New York. The artifact was the top lot in the "Vestiges of Ancient China" sale, highlighting the enduring allure and value of ancient Chinese art.
Key Takeaways
- A 3,000-year-old Shang Dynasty marble frog sculpture sold for $1.2 million at Sotheby's New York.
- This rare artifact significantly exceeded its pre-sale estimate of $400,000.
- Only three similar marble frog carvings from this period are known to exist.
A Rare Shang Dynasty Masterpiece
The archaic marble sculpture of a recumbent frog, dating from the Shang Dynasty (circa 16th - 11th century B.C.), captivated collectors at Sotheby's. Measuring 25 cm in length, the minimalist design features stylized elements of the frog, including its powerful back legs and simple indentations for eyes. This piece, which last appeared at auction in 1982, was hammered down for $950,000, ultimately selling for $1,206,500 with fees.
Significance of Shang Dynasty Art
Shang Dynasty art often reflected the era's strong beliefs in the afterlife, ritual ceremonies, and ancestor worship. While bronze vessels were common for offerings, and jade, bone, or ivory were also used, marble carvings of this nature are exceptionally rare. The frog motif, common in Shang art, is believed to have served as a bridge to communicate with gods or ancestors. While its exact symbolism remains debated among scholars, theories suggest it could represent fertility or prosperity.
Other Notable Auction Results
The "Vestiges of Ancient China" sale featured a variety of significant artifacts, achieving a total of $4.59 million with a 75.8% sell-through rate. Other highlights included:
- A pair of archaic bronze ritual pedestaled food vessels (Fang Zuo Gui) from the Early Western Zhou dynasty, which sold for $787,400.
- A silver-inlaid bronze crossbow casing and trigger from the Late Warring States period - Han dynasty, fetching $508,000.
- An archaic green jade 'chilong' disc, bi from the Han dynasty, sold for $482,600.
The auction showcased a strong market for ancient Chinese art, with pieces demonstrating exceptional craftsmanship and historical significance commanding high prices.
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