Belt buckle, 1st-2nd century
Unknown artist, Chinaexpand_more
Gold, turquoise, and agateexpand_more
Gift of Ruth and Bruce Daytonexpand_more 2002.10.1
On View in Gallery 103expand_more
This buckle is decorated in relief with a winged dragon, a motif that was emblematic of the court during the Han dynasty. It is set with cabochons of turquoise and agate. Turquoise had been used throughout the Bronze Age for decorative inlay in metal. While perhaps not in classic Han court taste, this luxurious buckle is exactly the type of object that would have impressed rulers of remote provinces.
The dragon here is still Chinese, but the decoration and design reflect Eurasian influences, from the inlaid precious stones in oval shapes to the dots puncturing the metal to the shape of the buckle itself, which is derived from the Eurasian grasslands nomadic culture.
Details
- Title
- Belt buckle
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 2002.10.1
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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