Burmese Goat Bronze Opium Weight Burmese Goat Bronze Opium Weight

Burmese Goat Bronze Opium Weight

125.00 kr
125.00 kr
In stock

This very beautiful and rare opium bronze weight represents a goat, dating back to 18th-19th century Burma.

Provenance: Ex. Private Collection and Antiquities Dealer, Netherlands. Acquired approximately in the 1970s.

Culture & Date: Burmese, 18th-19th century.

Literature Reference: [Add a relevant literature reference if available.]

Condition: Very fine.

Dimensions:

  • Weight: 13 grams
  • Height: 2 cm
  • Length: 1.9 cm
  • Width: 1.2 cm

Historical Context:

Opium weights, often cast in the form of animals, were a critical aspect of trade and commerce in Southeast Asia, particularly in Burma (Myanmar). These weights, known as "opium weights" due to their association with the opium trade, were used to measure various goods, including precious metals and spices. The animal forms, including goats, were imbued with cultural and symbolic meanings.

The goat, a less common motif compared to the more prevalent bird and lion forms, adds to the rarity and uniqueness of this piece. Goat figures could symbolize prosperity and abundance, reflecting their value in agrarian societies.

Burmese opium weights were produced under strict regulations and standards, often overseen by royal decree. This ensured uniformity in trade but also led to a variety of stylistic interpretations over time. The craftsmanship of this goat weight, with its smooth finish and detailed features, exemplifies the high level of skill involved in creating these functional yet artistic objects.