HEXAGONAL LIDDED CONTAINER
Period: Tang dynasty (AD 618 - 906).
Medium: Nephrite jade.
Colour: Yellowish-green with patches of brown.
Dimensions: H. 24.8 cm; W. 11 cm; D. 11 cm.
The colour has altered considerably. When viewing this piece with the light through it the colour is a pale yellowish-green with patches of brown.
The lid is crowned by a three-dimensional carving of a warrior on horseback attacking another warrior with a spear. The fallen warrior protects himself with a sword and shield. A band of clouds below them with an animal head decorating each alternate corner.
The body of the container has a similar cloud pattern at the top and the panels of the hexagon depict warriors on horseback. Three warriors, each carrying shields and swords, form the legs of the container. Between each is a taotie or animal mask.
