East Asia, China, Tang Dynasty, ca. 618 to 906 CE. A remarkable pottery figure of a horse adorned in an elaborate caparison with dangling bells and intricate floral and star ornaments. Standing on all fours, the hollow figure boasts a thick body surmounted by a petite saddle atop a billowing saddle cloth. His naturalistic head faces forward with a neat mane of long ringlets cascading down his curved neck. Size: 14" L x 5.5" W x 14" H (35.6 cm x 14 cm x 35.6 cm)

According to Zhixin Jason Sun, Curator of the Department of Asian Art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, "The importance of horses rose to new heights in the Tang dynasty (618?907) when, as emblems of imperial power, they marched in state processions, galloped through royal hunting parks, raced across polo fields, and even danced before the emperor. Their portraits were painted by leading court artists, and their majestic form was modeled in brightly glazed pottery as tomb figurines and sculpted on marble plaques to adorn emperors' tombs as symbols of dynastic vitality." Beyond this, the horse played a significant role in the unification of the Chinese Empire, as the ancients could communicate to parties near and far due to the great speed of these noble steeds. The horse also assisted the military to conquer distant lands and grow the empire. As the desire for stronger, faster breeds grew, the ancients imported horses from Central Asia, leading to the creation of the famous Silk Road.

We see evidence of the reverence for the horse in the visual culture of ancient China. Imagery of horses abound in painting, literature, and sculpture. During the Tang dynasty, artists created burial art representing these revered animals. This particular piece depicts a large charger; this type of horse served as both a symbol of imperial stability that engendered bountiful trade and prosperity for the expanding empire and the reward of military exploits to the west. The most cherished horses were raised in the western kingdom of Ferghana and known as "blood-sweating horses." These were delivered as tribute to the reigning emperor. In general, for the ancient Chinese, horses were a sign of wealth.

This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) analysis and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full printed and bound report will accompany the item upon purchase.

Provenance: private Constance McCormick Fearing estate, Montecito, California, USA, acquired before 2004

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#181101

Professionally repaired with restoration over some break lines and chipping along other visible break lines. Missing ears and 2 bells on one side. Surface wear as show. Nice remaining detail and traces of original pigment in areas. TL holes to interior of tail and interior of head.