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HOME :
Chinese Art :
Han Horses : Han Painted Terracotta Horse
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Han Painted Terracotta Horse - CK.0307
Origin: China
Circa: 206
BC
to 220
AD
Dimensions:
11.6" (29.5cm) high
x 15" (38.1cm) wide
Collection: Chinese Art
Style: Han Dynasty
Medium: Painted Terracotta
£9,000.00
Location: UAE
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| Description |
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.
- (CK.0307)
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