Ancient gold plaque decorated with symmetrical twin horses

Updated: Feb 9, 2026 China Bound Print

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Gold plaque ornament decorated with twin horse motifs, Han Dynasty, from the collection of the Palace Museum [Photo/Palace Museum official WeChat account]

Take a closer look at this Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 220) gold plaque ornament and see if you can find the symmetrical twin horse motifs hidden in its design. This exquisite piece was once worn as a waist ornament by the Xiongnu people, the powerful nomadic confederation of the northern steppes. Crafted using the hammering (repoussé) and chasing technique, this small gold ornament carries big stories of steppe culture, craftsmanship, and cross-cultural exchange. Collection: Palace Museum.

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Ancient gold plaque decorated with symmetrical twin horses

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