Ornamental Plaque

Western Han dynasty (206 BCE–9 CE)

Not on view

Returned to lender

This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.

Depicted here is a lively scene of riders and various animals, including a dragon. It bears an astonishing affinity to ornaments found at Tillya Tepe, in northern Afghanistan, attesting to China’s overland trade with distant lands.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

西汉嵌宝金牌饰
Title: Ornamental Plaque
Period: Western Han dynasty (206 BCE–9 CE)
Culture: China
Medium: Gold inlaid with agate, turquoise, and mother-of-pearl
Dimensions: H. 3 1/8 in. (8 cm); L.7 7/8 in. (20 cm)
Classification: Gold
Credit Line: Lent by Shaanxi Provincial Institute of Archaeology
Curatorial Department: Asian Art