A fine and intricate set of solid gold saddle fittings from the Tang Dynasty (c. 700 A.D.), with fine repousse floral and circumlinear designs throughout.
These are of the type that have been found only, to our knowledge, in the northwest of China, Quinghai province in particular. There are influences that are both Tibetan and Sogdian in origin, as both cultures were dominant in this area during this period. These artifacts were originally made for royalty. It didn't behoove a lesser mortal to outshine his superiors in any physical manner; the punishments, if seen, could be extreme.
Item# 5180
Date: Tang Dynasty (c. 618-906 CE)
Medium: Gold
Subject: Saddle Fittings
Size: Largest Piece 25 “ W
A fine and intricate set of solid gold saddle fittings from the Tang Dynasty (c. 700 A.D.), with fine repousse floral and circumlinear designs throughout.
These are of the type that have been found only, to our knowledge, in the northwest of China, Quinghai province in particular. There are influences that are both Tibetan and Sogdian in origin, as both cultures were dominant in this area during this period. These artifacts were originally made for royalty. It didn't behoove a lesser mortal to outshine his superiors in any physical manner; the punishments, if seen, could be extreme.
Item# 5180
Date: Tang Dynasty (c. 618-906 CE)
Medium: Gold
Subject: Saddle Fittings
Size: Largest Piece 25 “ W