Stem cup

China (Xinjiang Autonomous Region, Central Asia)

Not on view

Occupying a portion of the ancient Silk Road that bridged China and Central Asia, the Tibetan Empire 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 metalwork of ancient Iran.

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

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

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