Jin-silk with Motifs of Paired Lions, Paired Elephants and Camel-leading Figures

Wave-shaped patterns form the decorative framework on this piece of jin-silk, embellished with motifs of different themes. In the center of the piece erects a temple-like building, inside of which lies a seated statue, probably of Buddha, with two seated figures placed outside, implying that this is a temple worshipping Buddha and his two disciples. The building-theme pattern is flanked by three groups of motifs on each side, which are, from left to right, walking elephants, lying lions and camel-leading figures. Woven character “胡” (Hu, meaning foreigner) can be found under the camels, indicating that these figures are probably foreign businessmen on the Silk Road.