The importance of horses to ancient Chinese culture cannot be overstated, and is perhaps nowhere better expressed than in these magnificent T’ang Dynasty sculptures. Standing c. 69 cm high, their...
The importance of horses to ancient Chinese culture cannot be overstated, and is perhaps nowhere better expressed than in these magnificent T’ang Dynasty sculptures. Standing c. 69 cm high, their finely modelled features and exquisitely observed anatomical detail makes them one of the most instantly recognisable – and desirable – icons of Chinese art. This matching pair of terracotta horses has been created with extreme attention to musculoskeletal topography and surface anatomy. Both have short tails, dressed with dressage-style precision, as well as trimmed manes and backwards-sweeping forelocks. They bear detachable saddles with multi-layer detailing and high pommels, and added incised decoration to the saddle blankets. One of the horses is a model of noble serenity, with dipped chin and generally peaceful demeanour; the other, while possessed of similarly poised body posture, has been depicted with open mouth and raised head, thus conveying a more excited – or perhaps martial – image. Both retain much of their original paintwork, including detailing of the eye, eyelashes and mouth. These magnificent museum-quality sculptures have survived in almost perfect condition, and would grace any collection. The great influence of the horse throughout the history of China cannot be underestimated. In fact, the ancient unification of the Chinese Empire was due in large part to the horse as their rapid mobility allowed for quick communication between distant provinces. Likewise, the military role of horses aided in the conquest and submission of distant lands. The need to import stronger, faster steeds from Central Asia (as opposed to the native 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 civilisation. In sculpture, painting and literature, horses were glorified and revered, believed to be relatives of dragons, a theory reflecting their sacred status within society. During the T’ang Dynasty, the adoration of the horse can be seen through their burial art, of which these specimens are such spectacular examples.