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Chinese Art :
Tang Horse and Riders : Tang Polychrome Horse and Female Rider
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Tang Polychrome Horse and Female Rider - X.0410
Origin: China
Circa: 618
AD
to 906
AD
Dimensions:
16.125" (41.0cm) high
x 12.25" (31.1cm) wide
Collection: Chinese Art
Style: Tang Dynasty
Medium: Terracotta
£9,600.00
Location: Great Britain
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| Description |
During the Tang Dynasty, horses were revered
creature, considered relatives of the mythical
dragon. This veneration was well earned, for the
speed and stamina of these majestic animals
ensured the protection of the northern borders
against barbarian invaders as well as enhancing
communication capabilities between far away
provinces, thereby aiding in the expansion of the
empire. The need to import horses from Central
Asia influenced the creation of the Silk Road.
Thus, they were also prized for their rarity.
Naturally then, horses became a status symbol
for the aristocratic elite. Polo and other
equestrian activities were popular pastimes. This
sculpture, depicting an elegantly dressed man
riding on the back of a white horse, reveals this
connection between nobility and the horse. His
cloak still retains a majority of its original red
pigment, as do his lips and the black headdress
that crowns his head (similar to a cap worn by
civic officials). We can imagine this rider
marching with his steed as part of an important
ceremony. Discovered buried inside a tomb, this
work was supposed to accompany the deceased
throughout the afterlife. The striking beauty of
this work is even more impressive, considering
that it was created specifically for interment and
was not supposed to be seen by the living.
Today, we marvel in the beauty of this sculpture
as much as its tremendous history and intriguing
legacy.
- (X.0410)
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