Museum Updates
Tang Dynasty gilt silver ear cup 'holds' spring blossoms
Updated: Apr 21, 2026
China Bound
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Meet the exquisite gilt silver ear cup, a masterpiece from the high Tang Dynasty (618-907). Every inch of this vessel is alive with detail: delicate fish-roe patterns shimmer across the surface, a rosette blooms at the center, and flowing cloud motifs weave between floral designs. On the outer wall, mandarin ducks and wild geese stand gracefully upon lotus pedestals. Even the twin handles are finely chased with tiny floral decorations, making this cup a true blend of craftsmanship and beauty.
Unearthed as a pair from the famous Hejiacun hoard discovery in Xi'an, Shaanxi province, it is now preserved in the Shaanxi History Museum.
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