A Chinese Archaic Bronze Bull

Warring States period or style, cast bronze bull posed in a walking position, its head pointed downwards, its almond eyes, nose, and mouth are rendered in archaic style, deep lines around its neck, the tail is curled towards its hind legs.

1 1/2 x 2 5/8 x 1 in.

From the Collection of Adrienne and John C. Maxwell, Jr. John C. Maxwell Jr. assembled one of the most distinguished private collections of Asian art in the American South, with a particular focus on Chinese, Korean, and Japanese works spanning antiquity through the late imperial period. A financier and respected market analyst by profession, Maxwell developed his interest in Asian art during his military service in Korea in the early 1950s. What began as personal study evolved into a lifelong commitment to collecting, scholarship, and connoisseurship.

The collection formed by Maxwell and his wife Adrienne reflects Maxwell’s highly analytical eye and preference for works possessing strong historical character, refined craftsmanship, and clear cultural significance. Numerous objects from the collection together with their private library of 1,200 scholarly Asian art journals and books were gifted to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, where they became part of the museum’s Maxwell East Asian Collection.

Weisbrod Chinese Art Ltd., New York
Purchased from the above before 1997.


Very good condition; with rubbing and wear expected from age; very nice patina.