Artwork Page for Gilt-bronze Boot, One of a Pair

Details / Information for Gilt-bronze Boot, One of a Pair

Gilt-bronze Boot, One of a Pair

907–1125

Northern China, Liao dynasty

(907-1125)
Medium
Gilt-bronze
Measurements
43.2 x 29.2 cm (17 x 11 1/2 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Barbara S. Robinson and Family 2023.97
Public Domain
You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.
Location
Not on view
Print
?

Did You Know?

The boot's dragon motif suggests that the wearer was a male princely member of the ruling family.

Description

Bronze and silver-gilt boots, modeled after textile and leather boots, were found in Liao tombs. A pair of silver-gilt boots (dated 1018 or earlier) with phoenix motifs and cloud scrolls, were excavated from the tomb of Princess Chen and Xiao Shaoju in Inner Mongolia at Qinglongshan town in Naiman Banner; the couple’s faces were covered with gold masks. This gilt-bronze boot shows rising dragons chasing pearls and may have been made for a male tomb occupant.
A gilt-bronze boot stands upright with a pointed toe directed to the left. The tall shaft is formed by two metal plates joined by three small hinges along a vertical front seam. Intricate, low-relief patterns of swirling vines and stylized clouds cover the gold surface. The finish is aged, showing dark spots and patches of green oxidation along the edges and seams. The boot sits against a gradient gray background.

Gilt-bronze Boot, One of a Pair

907–1125

Northern China, Liao dynasty (907-1125)

See Also

Visually Similar by AI

Contact Us

The information about this object, including provenance, may not be currently accurate. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please fill out the appropriate request form linked below:

Update or Correct Artwork Information

Imagery or Rights for Non-Open-Access Artworks

Report a Website Issue

Further Questions About This Artwork