Exploring the World of the Great Kublai Khan

Stem Cup
The Mongols were dubbed the "Golden Horde" for no small reason. As nomadic warriors, the lightweight ore proved especially valuable and adorned everything from jewels and brooches to lengths of shimmering fabric, known as nasij , that were textured with typical Central Asian motifs such as winged griffins and kept often as proof of status and prestige. Gold also existed in more practical forms, such as this cup, easily transported in a horseman's saddle bags.

• Treasures from the Forbidden City