Shang Dynasty Bronze Knife with Ibex-Head Terminal

Shang Dynasty, c. 1300–1046 BC, Anyang, Henan Province, China

A spectacular and exceedingly rare cast bronze knife, exemplifying the refined metallurgical skill and ritual symbolism of the Shang dynasty. This elegant piece features an openwork handle with stylized circular motifs, terminating in the finely modeled head of an ibex. The ibex displays striking details: sharply defined eyes, a pronounced nose, and long grooved horns that sweep back protectively over the ears—an expressive and commanding motif. The slender, gently curved blade is left unadorned, contrasting the elaborate hilt with a sleek, utilitarian elegance.

Knives of this type—with integral blade and handle, and animal-headed terminals—are typically associated with cultures at the northern periphery of Shang influence. Curved knives were known in China since the Erlitou period (c. 1900–1500 BC), and their continued development into the Shang era reflects both cultural exchange and stylistic evolution. While the Shang court at Anyang did not widely adopt such forms, this ibex-headed variant—closely related to examples from the famed Tomb of Fu Hao—demonstrates a syncretic fusion of Shang ritual bronze tradition with frontier artistic motifs.

The sophistication of this piece underscores the Shang dynasty’s unparalleled achievements in bronze technology. From ritual vessels to ceremonial weapons, Shang bronze production reflected a complex society governed by kings, supported by an elite of scribes, craftsmen, and warriors. Many such bronzes, including this knife, may have served as status markers or ritual implements, their iconography imbued with spiritual and protective significance.

Cast at the height of the Shang bronze age in Anyang—the dynasty’s final and most prominent capital—this knife is not only a tool or weapon, but a powerful expression of Shang cultural identity, territorial reach, and artistic legacy.

Excellent condition. Intact. Age-related wear, dark green patina with malachite encrustation and some areas of brown cuprite. Rich earthen deposits throughout. Size approx. 37,4cm x 8,1cm x 5,7cm.

Provenance: private collection from England

For a similar examples see: 

Knife with Ram's Head, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Accession Number: 49.136.9 (https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/53952)

The British Museum, Accession Number: 1973,0726.30 (https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/A_1973-0726-30)

References and further reading:

Chinese Bronzes: Art and Ritual, J. Rawson, BMP, London/Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts of East Anglia / Burrell Collection, Glasgow, 1987