China

Donkey Polo: A Noblewoman’s Uncommon Passion in Tang Dynasty China

Ancient Chinese Nobility’s Love for Donkeys

In ancient China, donkeys were often seen as humble pack animals, lacking the prestige of their equine counterparts. However, a recent archaeological discovery sheds light on a Tang Dynasty noblewoman named Cui Shi who defied societal expectations with her profound love for donkeys.

Cui Shi’s Passion for Polo

Cui Shi, a high-born lady from Xi’an, held a deep passion for polo, a popular but dangerous sport. Understanding the risks associated with horse polo, Cui Shi sought an alternative that would allow her to continue her beloved pastime safely.

The Introduction of Donkey Polo

Chinese nobles devised a variant of polo called Lvju, where donkeys replaced horses. Donkeys were slower, steadier, and closer to the ground, reducing the likelihood of serious injuries. While horse polo was more common, donkey polo also gained some popularity, though it was not as well-documented.

Cui Shi’s Request to Be Buried with Her Polo Donkeys

Before her untimely demise at the age of 59, Cui Shi expressed her desire to be buried with several of her beloved polo donkeys. This unusual request suggests that she wished to continue her equestrian passion in the afterlife.

Archaeological Evidence of Donkey Polo

Cui Shi’s tomb was eventually looted, but archaeologists were able to uncover animal bones that provided valuable insights. Radiocarbon dating confirmed that the bones belonged to donkeys that lived around the time of her death.

Physical Evidence of Polo Activity

The donkeys’ bones exhibited stress marks indicative of extensive sprinting and turning, a characteristic of polo-playing equids. This suggests that the donkeys in Cui Shi’s tomb were used for polo, not for transportation or other labor-intensive activities.

Challenging Societal Norms

Cui Shi’s love for donkeys and her decision to be buried with them challenged the prevailing societal views of the time. Donkeys were typically associated with ordinary folk, not with high-ranking nobles.

Recognition for Donkeys’ Contributions

The discovery of Cui Shi’s tomb and the evidence of donkey polo highlight the often-overlooked contributions of donkeys in ancient Chinese society. These animals were not merely beasts of burden but also played a significant role in the lives of the elite.

Unveiling the Past

The archaeological findings provide a glimpse into the lives of ancient Chinese nobles and their unique sporting practices. By shedding light on Cui Shi’s passion for donkey polo, researchers gain a better understanding of the diversity and complexity of ancient Chinese society.

Continuing Research

While the evidence strongly suggests that the donkeys in Cui Shi’s tomb were used for polo, further research is needed to fully understand the prevalence and popularity of this sport in ancient China. Future studies may reveal additional insights into the role of donkeys in the lives of the Chinese people.