Burma, 18th-19th century, Set of four bronze lion-shaped opium weights
Burma, 18th-19th century, Set of four bronze lion-shaped opium weights
Burma, 18th-19th century, Set of four bronze lion-shaped opium weights
Burma, 18th-19th century, Set of four bronze lion-shaped opium weights
Burma, 18th-19th century, Set of four bronze lion-shaped opium weights
Burma, 18th-19th century, Set of four bronze lion-shaped opium weights
Burma, 18th-19th century, Set of four bronze lion-shaped opium weights
Burma, 18th-19th century, Set of four bronze lion-shaped opium weights
Burma, 18th-19th century, Set of four bronze lion-shaped opium weights
Burma, 18th-19th century, Set of four bronze lion-shaped opium weights
Burma, 18th-19th century, Set of four bronze lion-shaped opium weights
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Burma, 18th-19th century, Set of four bronze lion-shaped opium weights

Charte Antikeo
By Gallery Cultures & Civilisations
Member of the Authenticity-Quality label
129 €
19th century
Asian Arts
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From: 38090, Villefontaine, France
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    Cultures & Civilisations

    Cultures & Civilisations

    38090 Villefontaine

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    Description
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    Set of four lion-shaped opium weights

    Burma
    18th - 19th century

    These small bronze objects, commonly referred to as opium weights, actually belong to a weighing system used in Burma from the 16th to the 19th century. Prior to the introduction of industrial weights by the British colonial administration, much of the local trade relied on weighing rather than coinage. These weights were used to measure high-value goods such as silver, gold, precious stones and sometimes opium, hence the modern name.
    Burmese craftsmen fashioned these weights in the shape of animals or mythical creatures. Among the most widespread representations is the Toe, a composite creature close to the lion, described in tradition as a beast endowed with strength and protective powers.
    The choice of this shape was not merely decorative, as in Burmese culture, mythical animal figures symbolize protection, integrity and legitimacy. Their presence on these weights helped guarantee the reliability of measurements and establish trust in transactions.
    Produced for over three centuries, these weights gradually disappeared in the 19th century when the British authorities imposed standardized iron models, putting an end to a tradition combining economic functionality, religious beliefs and symbolic aesthetics.

    Bronze
    2.4 to 4.7 cm
    Wear from use
    Private collection

    Contact us: culturesetcivilisations@orange.f

     

    Ref: L5SXL767HT

    Condition Good
    Style Asian Arts (Bronze sculptures of Asian Arts Style)
    Period 19th century (Bronze sculptures 19th century)
    Country of origin Myanmar
    Shipping Time Ready to ship in 2-3 Business Days
    Location 38090, Villefontaine, France
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