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LOT 3335 Very Scarce Ornate 17th or 18th Century Tibetan Saddle with Stirrups - This impressive saddle is constructed of wood and accented with elaborately pierced and chiseled iron plates featuring dragons and scroll designs in multiple levels. The dragons on the pommel and cantle flank a flame and Triple Jewel design or “Triratna” representing the Buddha, the Dharma (teachings of Buddha), and the Sangha (the community). The metal stirrups are also highly decorated and have pierced floral scroll designs along the bottom edges and elaborate interlacing knot designs on top. Originally the metal components would have had gold and silver ornament. The saddle has details similar to another example in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (accession number 1997.214.1) which is noted as “Saddle (gser sga) Eastern Tibetan or Chinese for the Tibetan market, 17th-18th century.”The MET notes that this form of saddle was “Chinese or strongly influenced by Chinese types” and that their example and other related saddles such as this one likely stem from a single workshop or region based on the similar designs and attributes such as the three-level metalwork. CONDITION: Fine with moderate age and storage related wear, traces of original finish, and mostly smooth patina on the metal overall. Estimate: 5,000 - 7,500
LOT 3336 Attractive and Highly Ornate Bronze Lantaka Swivel Gun - These were used in the islands of Southeast Asia, including in Indonesia and the Philippines, through the 19th century and even into the 20th century for both combat and signaling. They are often quite ornate as can be seen on this example which features the classic flared muzzle, curved “dolphins” on top, textured chevron patterns, and other accents. It measures 47 5/8 inches overall and has a roughly 1.15 inch bore diameter. CONDITION: Very fine with attractively aged patina. Estimate: 2,000 - 3,000
LOT 3337
Silver Inlaid Japanese Tanegashima Matchlock Arquebus - NSN, 52 cal., 41 3/8 inch octagon bbl., black/silver/brass finish, hardwood stock. Tanegashima arquebuses, named after the island on which they were introduced by shipwrecked Portuguese explorers in the mid-16th century, were used into the late 19th century, long after matchlock firearms had been replaced by flintlock and percussion arms by Europeans and other western countries. The barrel has a block front sight, a pair of silver inlaid dragons, and a traditional grooved block rear sight. The stock features a mix of brass and silver accents with engraved floral, rabbit, and smoke designs. There are also some untranslated markings on the left side by the breech. CONDITION: Good with attractive aged patina on the silver and brass, dark patina and mild oxidation on the barrel, and mild overall wear. The stock is very good and has minor scratches and dings. Mechanically fine. Estimate: 1,800 - 2,750
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