A silver universe: The steady flame of Tang

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A silver universe: The steady flame of Tang

This Tang Dynasty (618-907) incense burner with grape and bird motifs was excavated from Hejia Village in northwest China's Shaanxi Province. Designed to hold aromatic substances, its outer shell is made of pure silver with openwork grapevine and bird patterns.

The burner's internal parts are connected by rivets, which allow them to rotate freely while maintaining a low center of gravity. This keeps the inner container stable and prevents spills. It works on the same principle as modern gyroscopes widely used in aviation, aerospace, and maritime navigation.

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