Three Hares with Conjoined Ears Puzzle Box

Patterns of Three Hares with Conjoined Ears

Ceiling of Mogao Cave 205
Early/High Tang Dynasty

The caisson is a square decoration in the center of the top of the bucket-shaped cave in Dunhuang Grottoes. It is generally composed of three parts: the well center, the outside decoration of the well, and the hanging curtain. Because of the exquisite and unique patterns of these caisson wells, they have become one of the important contents of Dunhuang Grottoes art.

Among the many caisson patterns, the most representative and mysterious one is the pattern of Three Hares with Conjoined Ears. The wonder of the caisson pattern is that each of the ears is shared by two hares, so that only three ears are shown. The hares seem to be running and chasing each other in the garland, without beginning and end. It is thought to have a range of symbolic or mystical associations with fertility and the lunar cycle.