Bowl with double fish, dancers, and animals
China (Xinjiang Autonomous Region, Central Asia)
Not on view
Paired fish are an auspicious emblem (mangala) that first appeared in conjunction with the earliest Buddhist and Jain images from India. The presence this motif suggests that this bowl likely had a ritual function. The animals and dancers relate to Central Asian art, while the palmette design is similar to Sogdian and earlier Gandharan production.
This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.