A Chinese gilt-bronze belt hook, Eastern Zhou, finely cast to...

A Chinese gilt-bronze belt hook, Eastern Zhou, finely cast to the broad end with a cicada flanked by wing motifs above a bat with outspread wings devouring the former, the tapered shaft terminating with a dragon's head, 11cm long Provenance: Ben Janssens Oriental Art, London, 27 November 2003. Note: Ancient Chinese belt or garment hooks originate from Central Asian nomads from as early as the Warring States period. The equestrian tradition in this region was tightly related to wearing belted pants, hence the need for such hooks. They became an object of aesthetic contemplation and the four hooks included in this collection reflect the richness of fine materials available during these turbulent times. These hooks once adorned the clothing of individuals of high social status.