Dimensions: 11-3/4" H x 18-7/8" L

Chinese Qing Dynasty Period, gilt bronze Cloisonne horse saddle. Astounding Cloisonne Gilt bronze horse saddle constructed from hardwood. Constructed from wood tied together, the pommel and cantle plates made of chiseled bronze and highlighted in gilt to form the design of cloisonne against a elaborately pierced scrolled ground. Each wooden component is lashed together using a very strong cord that is strung through corresponding voids. The horse is known in ancient times to symbolize perseverance, speed, power, and strength. The gilt decorations are so intricate that it demands attention as it would indicate the high rank of the person who strode atop this master-craft. The frontal area delineates a twisted dragon hovering above a Shan Mountain range flanked on both sides by similar dragons moving through a cloud-filled sky. This cloud-filled expanse with flying dragons continues throughout the entire design. Amazing condition with a natural patina giving this piece an unforgettable appearance.


LOT NOTES:

The cloisonne technique was mostly used for jeweler and small fittings for clothes, weapons or similar small objects decorated with geometric or schematic designs, with thick cloisonne walls. 14th century this enamel technique had spread to China, where it was soon used for much larger vessels such as bowls and vases; the technique remains common in China to the present day, and cloisonne enamel objects using Chinese-derived styles were produced in the 17 the century. However, by the beginning of the 17 the century the Qianlong Emperor had a cloisonne workshop among the many Imperial factories. The most elaborate and highly valued Chinese pieces are from the early Ming Dynasty, especially the reigns of the Xuande Emperor and Jingtai Emperor (1450–57), although 19th century or modern pieces are far more common. The Chinese industry seems to have benefited from a number of skilled Byzantine refugees fleeing the Fall of Constantinople in 1453, although based on the name alone, it is far more likely China obtained knowledge of the technique from the middle east. In much Chinese cloisonne blue is usually the predominant color, and the Chinese name for the technique, jingtailan (Jingtai blue ware), refers to this, and the Jingtai Emperor. Chinese cloisonne is amongst the best known enamel cloisonne in the world.

Over all in EXCELLENT condition. Traced numerous tiny-holes of corrosions on enamel filling, No missing wires found on cloisonne works. With normal anomalies in nature, sign of stressed surface, minor scratch & dents. Surface traced wear and or declined to gilding. . Normal, consider ages and wear.
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