Ancient Ordos (Xiongnu) Early Mongolian Culture bronze deity amulet is a very unusual depiction of a hybrid horned owl with outstretched wings, saggy breasts and pot belly. It holds a snake in its beak and also with its arms/hands pushed backward to hold up both ends of the snake. Something between the legs, does it represent genitalia or just the bird's tail? Maybe it was a clan symbol? Fertility symbol? 

The wonderful stylization of the Ordos or Xiongnu, later known as the Huns who were also connected culturally with the Scythians was advanced for its time & contains distinctively recognizable design elements which lend fluidity to the entire composition. Most Ordos works featured animals & nature. In studying works of the Scythians, there appears to be a definite intercultural affinity & carry-over of the design stylizations, especially in the representation of the animals. 

As excavated with appropriate verdigris corrosion of the bronze and earthen deposits. Nice intact specimen with no cracks or losses. There is a self loop at top for hanging as a pendant.

~2-1/2" L x 2-1/4" W. From approx. 6th to 2nd C BC. includes the probable time range for this item's original creation and use.  



No returns unless GROSSLY not as described (i.e. received wrong/different item). Possible inaccuracies in dating, materials stated and/or cultural attributions do not constitute "grossly not as described". Archaeological and anthropological interpretations and opinions may vary widely amongst collectors & scholars. The information presented herein represents the studied opinion of the author of this post who is neither an expert nor claims any affiliation with any academic or archaeological/anthropological institutions and is for informational purposes only. It is in no way meant to supercede or supplant any published, non-published or transient interpretations or any other information which my be currently widely accepted as fact. Use your own judgement and knowledge in analysis of the item(s) presented here for purchase. In addition, all surface/cosmetic/structural anomalies, inconsistencies of color and other non-uniform characteristics which may be present, are inherent qualities of antiques and are not considered as imperfections or "not as described", regardless of whether or not they can be detected in listing photos or have been mentioned in the listing text. Item is being sold AS-IS, as in photos.



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Vintage condition as in photos.

May have scuffs, scratches, patina, dings, bends or other types of wear from previous use, age and/or storage.

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