Four Mat Weights in the Shape of Fighting Animals

2nd century BC

Not on view

Returned to lender

This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.

Before the chair was introduced to China in the third century A.D., people sat on the floor or on daybeds, over which straw mats were placed for comfort. Weights, usually in sets of four, held down the corners. These examples show a bear and tiger in fierce combat, reflecting both a nomadic influence and the exotic tastes of Han aristocrats.