The great influence of the horse throughout the
history of China cannot be underestimated. In
fact, the ancient expansion of the Chinese
Empire was due in large part to the horse. The
rapid mobility of horses allowed for quick
communication between far away provinces.
Likewise, the military role of horses aided in the
defense of the borders from nomadic invaders as
well as the conquest and submission of distant
lands. The need to import stronger, faster
steeds from Central Asia (as opposed to the local
Mongol pony) led to the creation of the Silk
Road. The importance of the horse in the history
and culture of China can be viewed, in part,
through the artistic legacy of this great
civilization. In sculpture, painting, and literature,
horses were glorified and revered. Furthermore,
horses were believed to be relatives of the
mythological dragon, reflecting their sacred
status within society. This gorgeous brown
horse is a splendid example of the T’ang Sancai
glazed horse, one of the most beloved types of
Chinese art. The horse is elegantly modeled and
decorated with a painted orange saddle and
spotted numnah and splendid green-glazed
reigns and headstall, reflecting the luxurious
regalia that horses were honored with. Overall,
this sculpture is a testament to the revered
status of the horse in Chinese culture, a love that
reached new heights of expression during the
T’ang Dynasty.
- (H.677)
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