This cast bronze spearhead (mao) is of a characteristic form from the Late Shang or Early Western Zhou period. The weapon is composed of a hollow, cylindrical socket (yong) designed to receive a wooden or bamboo shaft, which flares to meet a substantial, leaf-shaped blade (yuan).

The socket is robust, featuring two small, integrally cast suspension loops (niu), positioned opposite each other. These loops would have been used to secure the spearhead to its shaft with cordage. Encircling the socket, just below the loops, is a band of low-relief decoration which appears to contain archaic script, or clan signs, now partially obscured by patination.

The blade is broad and elegantly tapers to a sharp, reinforced point. A prominent medial ridge runs down the central axis of the blade, providing structural strength. The most significant decorative element is a masterfully executed taotie mask, cast in low relief at the junction of the socket and the blade. This zoomorphic mask is presented with stylized, protuberant eyes, C-shaped horns or ears, and a symmetrical composition that is both powerful and abstract. Flanking the central ridge, the flat surfaces of the blade are further embellished with intricate, incised patterns of stylized zoomorphic or geometric motifs, likely representing abstracted dragons or birds, set against a background of fine spirals, known as leiwen or ‘thunder pattern’.

The entire surface exhibits a complex and attractive archaeological patina, a testament to its long burial. This consists of a mottled, mineralised encrustation of green and azurite-blue copper salts over a foundational, smooth layer of reddish-brown cuprite, with areas of the underlying bronze visible. The quality of the casting is exceptional, with crisp lines and detailed ornamentation that remain clearly legible despite the surface corrosion.