China, 206 BC to 220 AD. Each well cast in the form of a stylized recumbent bird, with the head arched back over the body, finely detailed with a long neck, wavy comb, almond-shaped eyes, and short beak, the wings embellished with scroll designs. (2)

Provenance: French trade. Acquired from a private collection.
Condition: Good condition, commensurate with age. Extensive wear, nicks, scratches, dents, casting flaws, cracks, minor losses, rubbing and losses to gilt. The bronze with a fine, naturally grown patina with malachite and cuprite encrustations.

Weight: 173.2 g and 134 g
Dimensions: Length 6.2 cm and 6.3 cm

Weights of this type, made during the Warring States period and Han dynasty, appear to have been used to hold down the corners of woven mats used for seating or for the board game liubo. They were usually cast from precious bronze to convey the high status of the owner, and made in the shape of animals, often coiled to form a circle, or in the shape of human figures, and even mountains.

Auction result comparison:
Type: Related
Auction: Bonhams New York, 14 March 2016, lot 8031
Price: USD 6,250 or approx. EUR 11,000 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing
Description: A silver and gold-inlaid mat weight, Han dynasty
Expert remark: Compare the closely related subject, form, and size (6.3 cm). Note the silver inlays and that the lot comprises only one weight.