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Pouch

3rd century
Not on view
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.
Excavated from a woman’s tomb at Niya, this pouch, sewn from two pieces of wool tapestry, illustrates third-century cosmetic practices along the Silk Road. Woven onto the gold face of the pouch is a colorful, floral-patterned belt on a dark blue background. Inside, the pouch is lined with wool felt, and colorful pieces of plain silk decorate its edges. It was found containing a bronze mirror—akin to a contemporary travel compact.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • 汉晋 缀绢晕裥缂花毛织袋
  • Title: Pouch
  • Period: Eastern Han (25 CE–220)–Jin dynasty (266 CE–420)
  • Date: 3rd century
  • Culture: China
  • Medium: Wool tapestry, felt, and silk
  • Dimensions: incl. fringe and handle: 15 3/4 × 8 1/4 × 2 9/16 in. (40 × 21 × 6.5 cm)
    without fringe and handle: 6 11/16 × 5 1/8 × 2 9/16 in. (17 × 13 × 6.5 cm)
  • Classification: Textiles-Woven
  • Credit Line: Lent by Xinjiang Institute of Archaeology
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art