Stem cup

China (Xinjiang Autonomous Region, Central Asia)

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 207

Occupying a portion of the ancient Silk Road that bridged China and Central Asia, the Western Regions (Chinese: Xiyu) played an active role in intercontinental trade and cultural exchange from the seventh to the ninth century. The twelve zodiac animals on this gold cup indicate the influence of Chinese culture, while the intertwined vines encircling hybrid animals reflect Sogdian and Persian metalworking practices of ancient Iran.

Stem cup, Gold with repoussé decoration, China (Xinjiang Autonomous Region, Central Asia)

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