Era: Republic of China
Region: Yunnan, Guizhou, Sichuan
Dimensions: Diameter 7 cm
Weight: 116 grams
This is a bangle from the ethnic minorities in the Yunnan, Guizhou, and Sichuan regions. The bangle is thick, smooth, and shaped like a flattened drum. The clasp is adorned with Shou (longevity) characters, indicating that it was worn by the elderly. The bangle’s surface is decorated with a pearl pattern as the base, with a border of meander patterns on both sides, giving it a sense of rhythm and fullness. The body of the bangle features a galloping horse, symbolizing vitality and strength in ancient Chinese culture. Horses have always been seen as vigorous and lively creatures, representing the most spirited and dynamic elements of traditional culture. They are praised in various expressions, such as “heavenly steed soaring across the skies,” “free-spirited,” “graceful and elegant,” and “dragon horse spirit.” Whether it is a dragon or a horse, these have always been symbols of admiration and reverence across all eras. Horses are loyal to their owners, love to run swiftly, and are associated with phrases like “immediate success” and “leading the way.” Horses are intelligent, warriors’ companions, and symbols of military strength, making them beloved by emperors, generals, soldiers, and commoners alike throughout history. Horses have always been national treasures and household assets in ancient China, essential for warfare, transportation, agriculture, and trade. However, it is curious that horse motifs are rarely seen on silver bangles or other personal accessories.
Extended Description
This bangle originates from the ethnic minorities in the Yunnan, Guizhou, and Sichuan regions. Its unique design and profound cultural significance make it instantly captivating. The bangle’s shape is thick and smooth, resembling a flattened drum, which not only makes it comfortable to wear but also gives it an ancient and elegant appearance, full of the marks of time. The clasp is adorned with the Shou character, symbolizing longevity and good fortune. Clearly, this is a piece made for the elderly, carrying the blessings and hopes of the family and elders.
The surface of the bangle is decorated with a pearl pattern as the base, delicate and glossy, resembling a string of pearls, radiating a gentle glow. On both sides, it is bordered by meander patterns, which in traditional culture symbolize wealth and abundance, providing a sense of rhythm and harmony. The most striking feature on the bangle is the galloping horse motif. The horse is vividly depicted as if it is galloping through time and space.
In ancient China, the horse was always a symbol of vitality and was one of the most spirited and lively characters in traditional culture. It was not only an important companion in daily life but also a spiritual emblem and a talisman. The image of the horse has been praised in countless expressions, such as “heavenly steed soaring across the skies,” “free-spirited,” “graceful and elegant,” and “dragon horse spirit,” all of which convey people’s love and respect for horses. Whether it’s a dragon or a horse, they have always been the most revered and admired symbols throughout history.
Horses are associated with loyalty to their owners and a love for swift running, embodying the ideals of “immediate success” and “leading the way.” On the battlefield, horses were the faithful companions of warriors, facing life and death together. Thus, horses became symbols of military strength. Throughout history, emperors, generals, soldiers, and commoners alike have held a deep affection for horses, loving and respecting them, as horses were always national treasures and household assets in ancient China. Whether in warfare, transportation, agriculture, or trade, horses were indispensable.
However, it is intriguing that horse motifs are rarely seen on silver bangles or other personal accessories. This might be because, in ancient times, the techniques and materials for crafting accessories were relatively limited, and the complex design of horse motifs was difficult to reproduce perfectly on small accessories. Or perhaps it is because horses, as practical animals, played more of a labor and combat role in daily life, rather than being celebrated as decorative symbols. Nonetheless, the horse motif on this bangle is an exception, with its unique charm and exquisite craftsmanship, making it a treasured item.
This bangle is not only a beautiful accessory but also a witness to history and a carrier of cultural heritage. It embodies the wisdom and craftsmanship of the ethnic minorities and reflects their longing and pursuit of a better life. Through this bangle, we can feel the ancient people’s love and respect for horses and appreciate the profoundness of traditional culture. This bangle is not just an object, but a symbol of spirit and a cultural treasure worthy of careful appreciation and preservation.
