Lot 109

Early Chinese Brass Steelyard Balance | Crane and Ship Weights

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Lot 109
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Early Chinese Brass Steelyard Balance | Crane and Ship Weights
Early Chinese Brass Steelyard Balance | Crane and Ship Weights
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Early Chinese Brass Steelyard Balance | Crane and Ship Weights

Estimate: $900 - $1,350

Starting Bid: $350

(0 Bids)
by Artemis Fine Arts
August 6, 2026 9:00 AM MDT
Live Auction
686 S. Taylor Avenue
Suite 108
Louisville, CO, US 80027

East Asia, China, Qing Dynasty to early Republic period, circa 1880 to 1930 CE. A brass steelyard balance, the long tubular beam terminating in a hook for suspending goods, the opposing end fitted with a suspension collar and fulcrum. A compound counterweight, cast from a copper-rich alloy, hangs beneath the beam in the form of an elongated bird, likely a crane, above a secondary weight in the form of a stylized ship riding curling waves, its surface with relief detailing and small incised marks. Size: 56" L x 1.2" W x 21.5" H (142.2 cm x 3 cm x 54.6 cm)

Above the suspended weight, a coin-form plaque with a square central aperture bears an auspicious inscription, likely a traditional prosperity phrase meaning "to attract wealth and bring in treasure." Such expressions were commonly used in commercial contexts, reflecting both practical concerns and a belief in fortune and favorable outcomes. The integration of this charm into a weighing device transforms the object from a simple instrument into a subtle talisman of success in trade.

Steelyard balances of this type were essential tools in Chinese markets, used for weighing goods ranging from grain and medicinal materials to metals and textiles. The system relied on the careful adjustment of the counterweight along the beam, a method refined over centuries and central to everyday commerce.

Here, that functional design is elevated through decorative flourish. The bird and ship, suspended in careful balance, lend the piece a sculptural quality rarely seen in more utilitarian examples. It stands as both a working instrument and a symbolic object - a reminder that in trade, precision mattered, but a touch of good fortune was always welcome.

Provenance: private southern California, USA collection, acquired before 2000

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Item # 186376

  • Condition: Some light surface wear, but, otherwise, intact and excellent with good remaining detail.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000