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 the Lowlands-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.