Ancient Arts of Mongolia

Immerse yourself in the time before civilization to the 10th century with the cultural artefacts and a diverse collection spanning various historical periods and cultures.

Rock art (Bronze age (2000BC) - Bronze age (700BC)) by An anonymous artistThe Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum

Rock art

Mongolia boasts rock art as a cultural heritage to the world. With more than 500 rock art sites, Mongolia may be one of the wealthiest countries in Asia.

Mongolia's earliest examples of rock art include stunning depictions of wildlife. These ancient artworks often feature majestic creatures such as horses, wild goats, and the magnificent Argali sheep, now considered a threatened species.

Bronze sword by Ancient NomadsThe Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum

Bronze sword

The Bronze sword in the Fine Arts Museum is a remarkable piece of ancient weaponry. This intricately crafted sword is a product of mold-casting techniques and can be traced back to the 12th and 7th centuries BC.

The dagger pommel is mold cast in the shape of an ibex head, with ornate stylization of its eyes, ears, and muzzle, as well as thin and elegant horns.

Bronze Plaque (Bronze age (2000BC) - Bronze age (700BC)) by An anonymous artistThe Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum

Bronze Plaque

The Bronze Age model depicting a bird exhibits a bent neck, head, and eyes integrated with the hull. The bird's long cape, indicative of falconry, is encircled by various mounds featuring circular depressions representing the neck, feet, and feathers.

The intricate embossing on the cape exemplifies elegant craftsmanship. This artifact offers insights into the artistic representation of animals during the Bronze Age.

Hun pottery by The Hun EmpireThe Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum

Hun pottery

The pottery is from the Hun Empire, 3rd century BC. It is found in Bornuur sum Tuv province. This pottery is made of sifted powder clay of grey color and is used to store seeds and grains.

Mural painting of Turfan temple by copied by painter M.Tsembeldorj.The Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum

Mural painting of Turfan temple

The Turfan wall paintings, dating back to the Uyghur period in the 8th and 9th centuries, hold great historical and cultural significance. 

Mural painting of Turfan temple by copied by painter M.Tsembeldorj.The Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum

Among the ancient artworks, a wall painting expertly reproduced by M. Tsembeldorj offers a valuable insight into the artistic heritage of Mongolia. It reflects the techniques and styles of a long-lost time.

Man Stone by The Turkish khaganateThe Fine Arts Zanabazar Museum

Man Stone

The technique and style used to depict the man statue are closely connected to the artistic traditions of the Turkish Khaganate, which thrived from the 6th to 7th centuries AD.

The statue was found in the Toglokhyn steppe within the Battsengel soum of the Arkhangai province. Crafted from exquisite grey granite, the sculpture portrays a dignified figure of a man in a standing posture. 

Notably, the artisan has intricately depicted the man's belt and fingers, showcasing a high level of artistry and attention to detail.

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Take a tour around the ancient hall!

The exhibit boasts a fascinating array of historical artifacts, such as a diverse Bronze Age collection featuring intricate ornaments and tools. Visitors can also marvel at a Bronze Age deer stone, an ancient vessel from the Hun Empire, and a striking stone statue.

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Discover Mongolia's culture and heritage through the art and artifacts
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