Miniature Han Dynasty Horse & Rider (206 BC to 220 China)

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Han Equestrian Soldier

28.00cm wide    30.00cm high    (11.02 inches wide  11.81 inches high)

During the Han dynasty, the emperor Wu Ti discovered the tianma horse in 128 BC whilst on a mission to the far-west, proclaiming these to be the finest horses he had ever seen, capable of running a thousand li (310 miles) a day. It was not until after his defeat of the prince of the Ta-yuan in Ferghana in 101 BC that the Chinese succeeded in bringing the tianma back to China to subsequent huge popularity and success; the prestige of this western horse made them the status symbol of the rich and official families and as such they were portrayed in figurines placed with the dead.

This is a fantastic example of the type with absolutely superb pigmentation remaining.

Terracotta horse and rider; the horse representing the tianma ("heavenly horse"), which were introduced to China during the Han dynasty and according to legend sweated blood hence the extensive red-ground; stands foursquare with robustly moulded features including the musclature, prominently hogged mane, tall pointy ears and short stylised tail; applied trappings and decorative saddle blanket in blue, red and white pigment. Soldier sits atop with hands positioned and drilled for reigns; wears red cross-over tunic with wide white hems and lapels, over white silken trousers; superb facial pigmentation remaining beneath a tightly fitting black cap; bow-case on reverse.

gbp 1750 (Pound Sterling)

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