Ornament

Historical period(s)
Tang dynasty, 600-800
Medium
Jade
Dimensions
H x W x D: 5 x 5.1 x 2.4 cm (1 15/16 x 2 x 15/16 in)
Geography
China
Credit Line
Gift of Arthur M. Sackler
Collection
Arthur M. Sackler Gallery
Accession Number
S1987.774
On View Location
Currently not on view
Classification(s)
Jade, Jewelry and Ornament
Type

Ornament

Keywords
China, Tang dynasty (618 - 907)
Provenance
Provenance research underway.
Label

The figure on this ornament may represent a shaman, a person who acts as a medium and is able to summon the good and evil forces that dwell in the world.  It is thought that ornaments like this were worn on shamanist headdresses or by Daoist priests as part of ritual dress.

Published References
  • et al. Asian Art in the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery: The Inaugural Gift. Washington, 1987. cat. 74a, p. 118.
Collection Area(s)
Chinese Art
Web Resources
Google Cultural Institute
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