A pair of gold 'goddess' earrings, Song Dynasty 1.97 in. and 2.01 in. long, 5g each, 20ct (2). Images of apsara, goddesses, or child attendants are common design elements of the Song dynasty decorative arts. In earrings they typically appear in three-dimensional form. The two goddesses in this pair stand upon lotus thrones, wavy robes draping from their shoulders. Despite their sizes, the hairdress, facial expression, hands, and the decorating dragon heads are all clearly defined under a magnifying glass. Similar examples were excavated from the tombs dating to the Song dynasty in Jinan and Zhejiang, see Yang Zhishui, Gold and Silver Jewellery in Ancient China, Volume 1, Palace Museum Publishing, China, 2018, pp. 290-95
- Song Dynasty - The Song Dynasty was a ruling dynasty in China from 960 to 1279 AD. It was divided into two periods, the Northern Song (960–1127) and the Southern Song (1127–1279). The emperor was the ultimate authority, but he relied on officials who were selected based on their merit and skills rather than their family background or social status. The Song Dynasty was a period of great artistic and cultural achievements, particularly in the areas of poetry, painting, and calligraphy. The Chinese invented the printing press during this period, which revolutionized the spread of knowledge and ideas. During the Song Dynasty, China had a prosperous economy and was a centre of international trade, particularly in luxury goods such as silk, tea, and porcelain. The use of paper money became more widespread during this period, facilitating commerce and trade.
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