Headdress decorated with two dragons confronting a flaming jewel, late 10th–early 11th century. Gilt silver with repoussé decoration. Museum purchase with funds by exchange from the William Sturgis Bigelow Collection.
Headdress decorated with two dragons confronting a flaming jewel, late 10th–early 11th century. Gilt silver with repoussé decoration. Museum purchase with funds by exchange from the William Sturgis Bigelow Collection.
Conservation Spotlight Talk: Liao Dynasty Crown
3:30 pm–4:00 pm
The Liao dynasty (907–1125 CE) was established by the Khitan, a semi-nomadic people who ruled the area north of the Great Wall. Their metalwork displays material and technical mastery that draws on the metalware and gilding traditions of the Tang and Song dynasties in China. They were often described as “barbaric” outsiders but new research is recognizing them as culturally empowered elites with their own tastes and preferences. Learn how archeological finds and new technical study has shifted understanding and appreciation of this gilt silver headdress.
With Evelyn Mayberger, assistant conservator, Objects Conservation Laboratory.
Free with general admission. No advance registration or tickets required. Talks meet at Sharf Visitor Center.
Wheelchair accessible