The Tang dynasty (AD 618-907) marks a high point in Chinese history. During this golden age, China enjoyed an extended period of peace and prosperity. The arts flourished and were enriched by foreign styles, motifs, and techniques such as silver-working. Foreign religions, such as Nestorian Christianity, were tolerated and co-existed alongside native Daoism and Confucianism. Woodblock printing was invented by the Chinese some time during the 7^th century and hastened the spread of Buddhism.

Following the An Lushan rebellion of 755, the Tang became increasingly inward looking. The great Buddhist persecution of 841-46 was symptomatic of a dynasty in decline, which finally fell in 907.