Bronze mechanism which once formed the trigger part of a crossbow. The crossbow mechanism (see photo how it functioned) was a Chinese invention. This one is still in working condition. The pins on which the parts rotate are replacements. When this mechanism entered our collection, there were no pins. As this is also the case with the other trigger mechanisms in the collection (See Quick Find 0325-1 and 0325-2) we believe that the original pins were made of wood or bamboo which deteriorated long ago. This mechanism dates from the Han period (206BC – 221AD). Length 12.5 cm. Height 13.6 cm.