The silver jar is in the shape of a waterskin popular among the Khitan nomadic people in northern China, reflecting the cultural exchanges and integration in the Tang Dynasty. The body is made out of a single piece of silver plate welded at both ends, and the lid bears gilt lotus-petal designs by the repoussé technique with a silver ring riveted at its top through which a 14-centimeter-long silver chain connects to the loop handle. The gilt dancing horse on the surface tells about history. During the prosperous Tang Dynasty, the well-trained horses could dance to music and hold wine cups to make a cheerful toast to Emperor Xuanzong for his birthday celebration. However, during An Lushan’s rebellion, the gifted horses were abandoned by the emperor, captured by the ignorant rebel soldiers and finally whipped to death as eccentric dancing demons. Therefore, this silver waterskin is not only a work of art that embodies the unique artistic style of the period, but also the best witness to the rise and fall of the Tang Empire.