Sculpture depicting a bactrian camel

A three-color glazed ceramic Bactrian camel (sancai) with a rectangular base.

Bactrian camels traveled the trade routes of the so-called Silk Road during the Tang Dynasty, one of the most cosmopolitan periods in Chinese history, carrying up to 265 pounds (120 kg) of cargo. China exported luxury goods such as silk, lacquerware, bamboo products, steel, and imported perfumes, horses, and jewelry from the Western world.

Figurines like these were part of burial sets to protect the deceased, and their number determined the deceased's rank.