Overview
A pair of cast bronze rabbit figurines depicting stylized, alert hares with raised heads. They feature a heavily distressed, faux-archaeological patina designed to mimic ancient buried bronzes from the Han Dynasty.
Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A pair of cast bronze rabbit figurines depicting stylized, alert hares with raised heads. They feature a heavily distressed, faux-archaeological patina designed to mimic ancient buried bronzes from the Han Dynasty.
Story
Ancient Chinese tombs often contained bronze zodiac animals to guide souls. These stylized hares capture that ancient spiritual aesthetic, blending early Han dynasty design with 20th-century decorative art.
Maker / Origin
While these were likely produced in a mid-to-late 20th-century Chinese workshop specializing in archaistic bronzes, they pay homage to the master metalworkers of the Han Dynasty (202 BC – 220 AD) who pioneered stylized animal casting.
Condition & Value
The figurines show heavy artificial patination, which is intentional to the design. There is some minor surface wear and adhesive residue from price stickers. This intentional 'distressed' look means minor surface scuffs do not negatively impact their decorative value. Value is driven by their decorative appeal as a pair.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.