Ming dynasty(AD 1368-1644)
Length 6.7 cm, Weight 42. I g
Excavated at the Shunyang Royal tombs, Shangcai, Henan Province

This work uses the techniques of filigree, wire enlacing and waving to produce the head, wings and tail of the phoenix. The body is welded together with a thin sheet of gold as the base, and a tubular joint underneath. The phoenix's tail is welded together from six flowering branchlike strips inlaid with precious stones, which float above the body. The gold phoenix has a raised head with a straight body. Its back bears these flowering branches, and its wings are spread as if in flight. This is in all a wonderfully delicate and beautiful piece, enhanced by the fine inlay of jewels.