WESTERN LIAO: AE Khitan pendant charm/amulet (37.87g), 43.5mm; dragon // archer on horseback, small animal below, with loop for suspension (a similar piece sold in our Auction 44, Lot 533); wonderfully preserved, and probably the finest we have encountered, choice VF-XF, RR. The dynasty, also known as Qara Khitay state, was founded by Yelü Dashi, a member of the Liao royal family, who led the remnants of the Liao Dynasty to Central Asia after fleeing from the Jurchen conquest of their homeland in the North and Northeast of modern-day China. The empire was usurped by the Naimans under Küchlük in 1211. The empire was finally destroyed by the Mongol Empire in 1218.

Estimate: USD 400 - 600