Female Bear
Culture
Chinese
Date3rd–6th century
Mediumnephrite
Dimensions8.9 cm (3 1/2 in.)
ClassificationsJades
Credit LineGift of Drs. Ann and Robert Walzer
Object number2007.110
Label TextThe bear, once common in China, was a very popular symbol of strength and bravery associated during the Warring States period and Han dynasty with Chiyu, the God of War. The female bear was associated with a legend that told how the white fur of a mother bear turned black as she, in grief, tore up the ground and wiped her eyes. The mother bear was mourning the death of a young girl who had sacrificed her life protecting the mother bear's cub against an attacking leopard.
The gilt, cast-bronze handle is shaped like a taotie (lit. "glutton"), a beast mask with bared teeth; its protective symbolism is enhanced by a small, realistic depiction of a bear. Since tiger bones have been excavated from the Shang dynasty layer at Anyang (ca. 1400-1050 BCE), scholars believe that the taotie, a prevalent motif on ancient ceremonial bronze vessels, derives from the tiger. Originally complete with a ring, the handle was once attached to a royal coffin.Provenance2000, Exported from Hong Kong to New York and purchased by Spencer Throckmorton; 2000, purchased by Drs. Ann and Robert Walzer, Redding, CT; 2007, donated to the Worcester Art Museum.On View
Not on view
Chinese
18th century, Qing Dynasty (1644–1911)
Chinese
early 18th century, Qing dynasty (1644–1911)
Chinese
late 18th century, Qing dynasty (1644–1911)