The history of the Xi Xia Empire (1038 - 1227), completely destroyed by Genghis Khan, remains shrouded in mystery. The rare finds that have recently come to light (bronze oxen, ceramic angels, statues in wood and terracotta) are confirmation of a highly evolved and original culture with its own language of ideograms. Equally precious are the exquisitely worked bronzes, jade and porcelain of the Jin (1115 - 1234), the tartar dynasty, forebears of the Manchu and founders of Peking.