Object Description
A finely cast Ordos bronze belt plaque depicting a naturalistically rendered recumbent bull. It features an elongated torso, curved at the edges to depict the three dimensionality of the animal. The large head of the bull turns backwards, the gaze of it’s almond-shaped eyes drawn downwards. Further details have been added to the large, pointed ears in the form of small incised lines. The muscular legs are tucked under its body, with hooves joined together, recumbent in nature. The pose and anatomical features are characteristic of Ordos artistic representation, which drew on Scythian influences. The reverse of the plaque is hollowed with a large protruding lug, designed for attachment onto a piece of fabric or leather.
Date: Circa 6th century – 2nd century BC