Burma, prior to the 16th century, a bronze bird weight, well-worn with stone (pegmatite core). The outer copper "skin" is thin and can be clearly seen on this rare example. Around the dense round base are impressions of early script. A bird called a "hentha" sits in roosting posture. It has a very thick tail. Height is 3", diameter of base is 2.25". Weight is 1208.5 grams. The hentha became the most frequently used animal on this long series of so-called "opium weights." See Donald and Joan Gear, Earth to Heaven, plate 8. H: 3". See also See also Houben, op. cit. p. 47. Extremely rare and desirable. Cp. Arts of Asia, January / February issue 1982, pages 73-81. Joel L. Malter Collection, Register of Art #1598.