Plaque with Phoenix
Unknown Artist
7th–9th century
Medium
Gold
Dimensions
Diam. 2 3/4 in. (7 cm)
Classification
Metalwork
Culture & Period
China (Xinjiang Autonomous Region, Central Asia) · Period of Tibetan Empire
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase, The Vincent Astor Foundation Gift, 2002
Accession Number
2002.556.2
Tags
About this artwork
This Gold by Unknown Artist from 7th–9th century exemplifies historical artistic production through its materials, techniques, and aesthetic approach. Created within specific cultural and historical contexts, works like this reflect both individual artistic vision and broader patterns of workshop practice, patron expectations, and prevailing aesthetic theories. The medium of Gold required specialized knowledge developed through years of training, involving mastery of materials preparation, tool ...
Art Historical Context
This exquisite gold plaque, featuring a phoenix, dates to the 7th–9th century from China's Xinjiang Autonomous Region in Central Asia, during the Period of Tibetan Empire. Measuring just 2¾ inches in diameter, small yet striking piece of metalwork likely served as jewelry or a decorative ornament, showcasing the era's mastery of precious materials. Crafted at a cultural crossroads where Chinese, Tibetan, and Central Asian influences, it reflects the vibrant exchange of ideas along ancient Silk Road trade routes. The phoenix, mythical creature symbolizing rebirth virtue, and imperial grace in ...