The Three Kingdoms is a period in Chinese history which holds paramount importance in shaping Chinese culture and tradition. Lü Bù’s battle against the Three Heroes – Liú Bèi, Guān Yǔ and Zhāng Fēi, is richly illustrated in this sculptural collectible that is marked with the Heirloom Seal of the Realm, making it a piece of resplendent art.
 
The Three Kingdoms
The Three Kingdoms refers to a period in Chinese history after the Han Dynasty, where China was split into the tripartites of Wei, Shu and Wu. During this era, feudal lords fought fiercely against one another for power and territory. While it was a tumultuous time for the Chinese, it also inspired many stories and folktales that have manifested into integral parts of Chinese culture and tradition. The ‘Three Kingdoms’ series is an eternal mark of the epic moments and events during this time, for collectors to recount the monumental parts of Chinese history from the palm of their hands.
 
The Flying General
If not the most, Lü Bù was one of the mightiest warriors ever depicted in Chinese history.  Because of his exceptional prowess and abilities, he was even given the epithet ‘飛將’ which translates to ‘Flying General’. Lü Bù was an incredibly strong and powerful military general who excelled in archery and horse-riding. Together with his steed, the ‘赤兔马’, otherwise known as ‘Red Hare’, they formed a formidable duo that was not to be reckoned with.
 
Lü Bù against the Three Heroes
The battle of Lü Bù against the Three Heroes – Liú Bèi, Guān Yǔ and Zhāng Fēi, took place at the Hu Lao Pass or ‘Tiger Gate’, a military vantage point that was highly sought after. Well aware of his excellent capabilities in battle, the Three Heroes came together in an attempt to defeat Lü Bù and his Red Hare. In this piece, all four heroes are suited in their full-battle armour wielding their signature and trusted weapons in hand. From the textures of the horses’ manes to the facial expressions of each of the warriors, every detail is pronounced deeply in an ultra-high relief.
 
The Heirloom Seal of the Realm
On the obverse sits the stamp of the legendary Heirloom Seal of the Realm – an unparalleled sign of ultimate authority and power. The words ‘受命於天, 既壽永昌’, translating to “With the Mandate from Heaven, may the Emperor lead a long and prosperous life”, are inscribed in a magnificent shade of crimson red demanding authority and respect.
 
First commissioned by Qin Shi Huang when he unified China and became her first emperor, the seal was carved from precious jade and used exclusively by the Emperor – although no prints by the Heirloom Seal have been found to exist yet. This fuelled its mystery as the most priceless artefact in ancient China, yet which has since disappeared as it was passed down the ruling lineage. Because it symbolized a god-given power to rule, the seal was thus an object of rivalry and contention during the period of the Three Kingdoms, as feudal lords and warlords alike fought to possess it to demonstrate their positions as deserving leaders.
 
Grandeur Work of Art
This impeccable piece is delivered in a two-tone finish to depict the scene impactfully. The form of Lü Bù and his steed is prominent in shining silver, while the Three Heroes approaching him are grounded in a rich copper tone. The result is a miniature sculpture in one’s hand, visually strong and distinctive with its deep engravings and intense colours. Combining the pivotal moment in history of Lü Bù’s battle with the Three Heroes and the sacred meaning of the Heirloom Seal, this grandeur work of art delivers utmost blessings and favour for its collector while it displays beautifully to be admired and coveted.
 
Finish
A new minting technique called “Bi-Metal Plus” was applied to give this piece an impressive size and weight. At 8 cm in diameter, it is double the size of a regular 2 oz collectible, made possible by combining 11.5 oz of copper embodied within two layers of 999 pure silver totalling 2 oz, to deliver a super ultra-high relief topped with silver antiqued finishing.
 
This is a limited edition of 888 pieces only. Each piece is packaged and delivered with a Certificate verifying its edition number and authenticity.