This pottery figurine is sculpted to show the strong, bold line and muscularity of the horse. Once part of an assembled set, this horse bears the characteristics associated  More »

This pottery figurine is sculpted to show the strong, bold line and muscularity of the horse. Once part of an assembled set, this horse bears the characteristics associated with the famed Heavenly Horse of Fergana. Its long muscular neck, arched mane, stylistically curved snout, flared nostrils and gaping mouth depict a horse of regal origin. The figurine is painted in red pigment with designs representing saddle and bridle painted on. White and pink swirled sashes and ribbons are drawn onto the body, complimenting the animal's own natural beauty and grace.Valued for its speed, strength and beauty, the horse has been one of the most admired animals in China. The horse has enabled man to swiftly transport massive armies into distant and neighboring territories in order to secure vast wealth and land. According to lore, there existed a horse so powerful and beautiful that it was believed to be bequeathed from heaven. In early China, owning a horse required wealth and status, eventually becoming as a sign of one's social standing. Equestrian activities only encourage the indulgence of the wealthy few who owned horses. Naturally in Chinese art, the horse became a favorite subject of artists who try to create visual representations of the animal that capture both its vitality and presence. During the Han Dynasty, the horse was rendered in miniature sculptural form to be interred with the dead. It was believed that the animal could assume its powers and assist the deceased in the dangerous journey to the other world. This custom answered to the needs of a particular belief system regarding life after death and the spiritual world. - (H.017)   « Less

This pottery figurine is painted in blue pigment with red, criss-crossing fittings outlined in white painted onto the body of the horse rather than molded. The head of the  More »

This pottery figurine is painted in blue pigment with red, criss-crossing fittings outlined in white painted onto the body of the horse rather than molded. The head of the horse is adjoined to a separate "body" piece at the neck; the separate leg attachments are missing. The horse's strenuous expression is vividly portrayed in the fine sculpturing of bulging veins and eyes, muscular jaws, wide-open flared nostrils, and gaping mouth bearing clenched teeth. Though rigid in form, the sculpture successfully conveys the horse's solid stance and admirable attributes of resoluteness and power. Valued for its speed, strength and beauty, the horse has been one of the most admired animals in China. The horse has enabled man to swiftly transport massive armies into distant and neighboring territories in order to secure vast wealth and land. According to lore, there existed a horse so powerful and beautiful that it was believed to be bequeathed from heaven. In early China, owning a horse required wealth and status, eventually becoming as a sign of one's social standing. Equestrian activities only encourage the indulgence of the wealthy few who owned horses. Naturally in Chinese art, the horse became a favorite subject of artists who try to create visual representations of the animal that capture both its vitality and presence. During the Han Dynasty, the horse was rendered in miniature sculptural form to be interred with the dead. It was believed that the animal could assume its powers and assist the deceased in the dangerous journey to the otherworld. This custom answered to the needs of a particular belief system regarding life after death and the spiritual world. - (H.018)   « Less

The body of this horse figurine is painted in a dark red pigment, highlighted in areas around the nostrils, eyes, inner ears, and mouth in bright red. Its body  More »

The body of this horse figurine is painted in a dark red pigment, highlighted in areas around the nostrils, eyes, inner ears, and mouth in bright red. Its body trappings--bridle and reins--are painted in bright red, stylistically patterned in a criss-cross head piece and a diamond shaped chest ornament that ties near the saddle. The saddle is colored white with bright red trimming. The horse's massive and solid appearance is accentuated by the anima'ls graceful curves yet wide, sturdy form. The tappered jawline gives the appearance of a "hinged" mouth, adding to expressionistic features of this horse whose bright white teeth gleam against the hanging flesh of the lip. Valued for its speed, strength and beauty, the horse has been one of the most admired animals in China. The horse has enabled man to swiftly transport massive armies into distant and neighboring territories in order to secure vast wealth and land. According to lore, there existed a horse so powerful and beautiful that it was believed to be bequeathed from heaven. In early China, owning a horse required wealth and status, eventually becoming as a sign of one's social standing. Equestrian activities only encourage the indulgence of the wealthy few who owned horses. Naturally in Chinese art, the horse became a favorite subject of artists who try to create visual representations of the animal that capture both its vitality and presence. During the Han Dynasty, the horse was rendered in miniature sculptural form to be interred with the dead. It was believed that the animal could assume its powers and assist the deceased in the dangerous journey to the otherworld. This custom answered to the needs of a particular belief system regarding life after death and the spiritual world. - (H.020)   « Less

This powerfully modeled torso of a horse is painted with a full harness in red and white pigment. The saddle is outlined in blue paint and decorated with red circular  More »

This powerfully modeled torso of a horse is painted with a full harness in red and white pigment. The saddle is outlined in blue paint and decorated with red circular designs. Staring eyes, bared teeth and flared nostrils, the horse's expression is full of ferocity. With its ears pulled back, ridge of the nose sharply angled, and chest thrusting forward, we can imagine this horse magnificently galloping into battle, determined as is his rider, to triumph and conquer.The legendary "heavenly horses" of the West intrigued the Han emperor who set out on a mission to obtain these gallant horses that, according to legend, sweat blood. The horse became a symbol of military prowess, strength, and vitality. It was at the foundation upon which rests the army. Along the roads to the imperial tombs of the Han dynasty, recreations of horse in ceramic were placed to fortify the entrance as were recreations of chariots, riders and thousands of foot soldiers. This thirst for immortality is what brought about this elaborate burial custom for it was believed that the deceased needed to be protected in their journey to paradise. - (H.501)   « Less

With earthen residue adhering to its surface, this pottery tomb figure of a horse conveys a sense of liveliness through the curvature of the body and facial expression. Its  More »

With earthen residue adhering to its surface, this pottery tomb figure of a horse conveys a sense of liveliness through the curvature of the body and facial expression. Its gentle smile and lightly defined eyes give the impression of serenity while its solid, shortened body, saddled and assuming a stance of readiness, indicate its utility in battle. Horses were greatly prized during the Han. Expansionist policies coupled with the growing threat of the Xiongnu tribes along the northern borders of China during the Eastern Han necessitated the acquisition of superior horses in order to achieve a peerless military force. After concerted military and political efforts, the Han rulers succeeded in ensuring a supply of superb horses from the region of Fergana to the west of China. Referred to as "celestial horses," this breed of horses captured the imagination of artisans whose depiction of them vary significantly. The exaggerated arch of the neck, prominent forelock that extends out between the ears, and cocked hind leg are characteristic of the portrayal of this horse. However, the thick haunches and stout, sturdy appearance of the body reveal the craftsman sensitive observation to the muscularity of this breed. It is surely a masterpiece of its time. - (H.518)   « Less

This pottery figurine is sculpted to show the strong, bold line and muscularity of the horse. Once part of an assembled set, this horse bears the characteristics associated  More »

This pottery figurine is sculpted to show the strong, bold line and muscularity of the horse. Once part of an assembled set, this horse bears the characteristics associated with the famed Heavenly Horse of Fergana. According to lore, there existed a horse so powerful and beautiful that it was bequeathed from heaven. This gorgeous horse almost appears to have been sculpted in a divine workshop. Its long muscular neck, arched mane, stylistically curved snout, flared nostrils and gaping mouth depict a horse of regal origin. The figurine is painted in dark red pigment with designs representing saddle and bridle painted on. White and light red swirled sashes and ribbons are drawn onto the body, complimenting the animal's own natural beauty and grace. Valued for its speed, strength and beauty, the horse has been one of the most admired animals in China. The horse has enabled man to swiftly transport massive armies into distant and neighboring territories in order to secure vast wealth and land. In early China, owning a horse required wealth and status, eventually becoming as a sign of one's social standing. Equestrian activities only encourage the indulgence of the wealthy few who owned horses. Naturally in Chinese art, the horse became a favorite subject of artists who try to create visual representations of the animal that capture both its vitality and presence. During the Han Dynasty, the horse was rendered in miniature sculptural form to be interred with the dead. It was believed that the animal could assume its powers and assist the deceased in the dangerous journey to the next world. This custom answered to the needs of a particular belief system regarding life after death and the spiritual world. - (H.632)   « Less

The impact of the horse on the history of China cannot be underestimated. In fact, the ancient unification and expansion of the Chinese Empire was due in large part to this  More »

The impact of the horse on the history of China cannot be underestimated. In fact, the ancient unification and expansion of the Chinese Empire was due in large part to this majestic creature. Their rapid mobility enabled quick correspondence between far away provinces, allowing the establishment of a centralized power. Likewise, the military role of horses aided in the conquest and submission of distant lands. The influence of the horse on the history and culture of China can be viewed, in part, through the artistic legacy of this great civilization. Believed to be relatives of mythological dragons, a theory reflecting their sacred status, horses were glorified and revered in sculpture, painting, and literature. During the unification of China under the Han Dynasty, bands of mounted nomadic warriors from the north threatened the country. In order to thwart their attacks, the Chinese imported stronger, faster steeds from Central Asia (as opposed to the native Mongol ponies) eventually leading to the creation of the Silk Road. In ancient China, owning a horse required wealth and status. Eventually, they became signs of one's social standing. Equestrian activities such as polo further encouraged the indulgence of the wealthy few who owned horses. This terracotta sculpture of a horse captures the bold lines and strong muscularity of the horse. During the Han Dynasty, the horse was rendered in miniature sculptural form specifically in order to be interred with the dead. It was believed that the sculpted version could assume the powers of its living counterpart in the afterlife and assist the deceased in the dangerous journey to the next world. This custom catered to the needs of a particular belief system regarding life after death and the spiritual world. Not only is this sculpture an ancient answer to an eternal question that continues to plague us even today, but it is also a stunning work of art of tremendous historical and cultural significance. - (H.725)   « Less

The impact of the horse on the history of China cannot be underestimated. In fact, the ancient unification and expansion of the Chinese Empire was due in large part to this  More »

The impact of the horse on the history of China cannot be underestimated. In fact, the ancient unification and expansion of the Chinese Empire was due in large part to this majestic creature. Their rapid mobility enabled quick correspondence between far away provinces, allowing the establishment of a centralized power. Likewise, the military role of horses aided in the conquest and submission of distant lands. The influence of the horse on the history and culture of China can be viewed, in part, through the artistic legacy of this great civilization. Believed to be relatives of mythological dragons, a theory reflecting their sacred status, horses were glorified and revered in sculpture, painting, and literature. During the unification of China under the Han Dynasty, bands of mounted nomadic warriors from the north threatened the country. In order to thwart their attacks, the Chinese imported stronger, faster steeds from Central Asia (as opposed to the native Mongol ponies) eventually leading to the creation of the Silk Road. In ancient China, owning a horse required wealth and status. Eventually, they became signs of one's social standing. Equestrian activities such as polo further encouraged the indulgence of the wealthy few who owned horses. This terracotta sculpture of a horse captures the bold lines and strong muscularity of the horse. During the Han Dynasty, the horse was rendered in miniature sculptural form specifically in order to be interred with the dead. It was believed that the sculpted version could assume the powers of its living counterpart in the afterlife and assist the deceased in the dangerous journey to the next world. This custom catered to the needs of a particular belief system regarding life after death and the spiritual world. Not only is this sculpture an ancient answer to an eternal question that continues to plague us even today, but it is also a stunning work of art of tremendous historical and cultural significance. - (H.726)   « Less

The impact of the horse on the history of China cannot be underestimated. In fact, the ancient unification and expansion of the Chinese Empire was due in large part to this  More »

The impact of the horse on the history of China cannot be underestimated. In fact, the ancient unification and expansion of the Chinese Empire was due in large part to this majestic creature. Their rapid mobility enabled quick correspondence between far away provinces, allowing the establishment of a centralized power. Likewise, the military role of horses aided in the conquest and submission of distant lands. The influence of the horse on the history and culture of China can be viewed, in part, through the artistic legacy of this great civilization. Believed to be relatives of mythological dragons, a theory reflecting their sacred status, horses were glorified and revered in sculpture, painting, and literature. During the unification of China under the Han Dynasty, bands of mounted nomadic warriors from the north threatened the country. In order to thwart their attacks, the Chinese imported stronger, faster steeds from Central Asia (as opposed to the native Mongol ponies) eventually leading to the creation of the Silk Road. In ancient China, owning a horse required wealth and status. Eventually, they became signs of one's social standing. Equestrian activities such as polo further encouraged the indulgence of the wealthy few who owned horses. This terracotta sculpture of a horse captures the bold lines and strong muscularity of the horse. During the Han Dynasty, the horse was rendered in miniature sculptural form specifically in order to be interred with the dead. It was believed that the sculpted version could assume the powers of its living counterpart in the afterlife and assist the deceased in the dangerous journey to the next world. This custom catered to the needs of a particular belief system regarding life after death and the spiritual world. Not only is this sculpture an ancient answer to an eternal question that continues to plague us even today, but it is also a stunning work of art of tremendous historical and cultural significance. - (H.727)   « Less

The impact of the horse on the history of China cannot be underestimated. In fact, the ancient unification and expansion of the Chinese Empire was due in large part to this  More »

The impact of the horse on the history of China cannot be underestimated. In fact, the ancient unification and expansion of the Chinese Empire was due in large part to this majestic creature. Their rapid mobility enabled quick correspondence between far away provinces, allowing the establishment of a centralized power. Likewise, the military role of horses aided in the conquest and submission of distant lands. The influence of the horse on the history and culture of China can be viewed, in part, through the artistic legacy of this great civilization. Believed to be relatives of mythological dragons, a theory reflecting their sacred status, horses were glorified and revered in sculpture, painting, and literature. During the unification of China under the Han Dynasty, bands of mounted nomadic warriors from the north threatened the country. In order to thwart their attacks, the Chinese imported stronger, faster steeds from Central Asia (as opposed to the native Mongol ponies) eventually leading to the creation of the Silk Road. In ancient China, owning a horse required wealth and status. Eventually, they became signs of one's social standing. Equestrian activities such as polo further encouraged the indulgence of the wealthy few who owned horses. This terracotta sculpture of a horse captures the bold lines and strong muscularity of the horse. During the Han Dynasty, the horse was rendered in miniature sculptural form specifically in order to be interred with the dead. It was believed that the sculpted version could assume the powers of its living counterpart in the afterlife and assist the deceased in the dangerous journey to the next world. This custom catered to the needs of a particular belief system regarding life after death and the spiritual world. Not only is this sculpture an ancient answer to an eternal question that continues to plague us even today, but it is also a stunning work of art of tremendous historical and cultural significance. - (H.729)   « Less