Antique Large Toe Oung Burmese Copper Alloy Opium Weight

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An extremely rare find
A very large size Burmese opium weigh - 3.8 kilograms
Cast from copper alloy with great … Read more An extremely rare find
A very large size Burmese opium weigh - 3.8 kilograms
Cast from copper alloy with great detail featuring a fabulous beast, aka toe oung
The TOE is a mythological animal supposedly dwelling in the Himalayan forest. It has the face of a lion, horns, and the hooves and tail of a horse.
The one presented here is Toe Oungur - Tibetan bull. The face with its bared teeth and flaring nostrils resembles a lion, while the round plump body, long tail and hooves are are more like a horse.
It stands on a low octagonal base. The scarce examples like this one are dating back to the 17th/18th century.
In front at the pedestal there is a small square stamp outlining the shape of the animal
Additionally the two flower-shaped marking on the side are indications of the weight
Burma, Myanmar
NOTE: For a comprehensive guide in this subject matter, please refer to the study - Burmese "Opium" Weights, Arts of Asia Magazine (January/February 1982 Issue) by Sylvia Fraser-Lu
Measurements: Approx. 5.5" tall x 4.5" x 4.25"
Weighs about 8 lbs. 6 oz. = 3800 gr = 231.7 tical

Condition: Very Good overall. Please see photos. Exceptional patina developed over centuries. There are three marks to the left (as pictured) from some kind of metal check-ups or so. All original. See less