Disk with Deer (?) and Floral Relief
Disk with Deer (?) and Floral Relief
Place of OriginChina
DateHan Dynasty (206 BCE - 221 CE)
DimensionsDiam: 1 3/16 in. (3 cm)
MediumGlass
ClassificationGlass
Object number
1930.221
Not on View
DescriptionA flat, circular disk of opaque white glass featuring a central perforation. The object is decorated on both sides in bas-relief. The obverse displays a deer-like animal in profile, flanked by two stylized floral sprays. The reverse features complementary floral designs. The glass is composed to mimic the appearance of white jade.
Label TextThese opaque white glass discs (1930.221 and 1930.222) illustrate the Chinese glassmaker’s skill in imitating precious stones. Glass in early China was often treated as a surrogate for jade (yu), and opaque white formulas were developed specifically to replicate the stone's visual qualities. These pieces were part of the Sunglin Collection formed by Dr. Herbert Mueller in Beijing in the early 20th century.Published ReferencesMueller, Herbert, The Sunglin Collection of Chinese Art and Archaeology, Peking: Catalog of Exhibition, New York, Herbert J. Devine Galleries, 1930, nos. H.1017 and H.1018.
Exhibition HistoryToledo Museum of Art, East Asiatic Glass, October 1948, no. 67, repr.
Han Dynasty (206 BCE - 221 CE)
First half of the 1st century
First half of the 1st century
Probably mid- or third quarter of the 1st century
3rd to 1st century BCE
about 320 BCE
3rd to 1st century BCE
mid-19th century
1st century BCE - 1st century CE
250 BCE - 225 CE
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