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Octagonal Box

Tang Dynasty, 700 - 800 ca.

This inlaid Chinese box, which maybe was once part of the Japanese collections of Shoso-in in Nara, attests to the great achievements made in the decorative arts at the peak of the Tang dynasty and especially during the reign of Xuanzong (r. 712–756), when such objects were the gifts of choice for official exchanges between the empires of Japan and China. It also provides an excellent illustration of the peak attained in craftsmanship, characterised by the elegance of an ornamental repertoire that gradually extended to the production of all luxury goods – precious mirrors, silks and jewellery – and spread towards Central Asia and Japan alike.

Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi/ Photo: Thierry Ollivier

Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi/ Photo: Thierry Ollivier

Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi/ Photo: Thierry Ollivier

Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi/ Photo: Thierry Ollivier

Title: Octagonal Box
Geography: China
Date: Tang Dynasty, 700 - 800 ca.
Medium: wood, tortoiseshell, mother-of-pearl, amber
Classification: container, vase, tableware
Dimensions: D. 38.5 cm
Inventory number: LAD 2009.022
Contact for images: [email protected]
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