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Chinese Art :
Masterpieces of Chinese Art : A Pair of Tang Dynasty Red and White Painted Pottery Prancing Horses
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A Pair of Tang Dynasty Red and White Painted Pottery Prancing Horses - DL.2084
Origin: Shaanxi Province, Xi'an
Circa: 618
AD
to 907
AD
Collection: Chinese
Medium: Terracotta
Condition: Extra Fine
Location: UAE
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| Description |
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The great influence of the horse throughout the
history of China cannot be over-estimated. In
fact, the ancient unification of the Chinese
Empire was due in large part to the horse. Their
rapid mobility allowed for quick communication
between far away 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 civilization. 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 Tang Dynasty, the adoration of the
horse can be seen through their burial art. Horse
models excavated from mausoleums of the
period are among the most splendid and easily
recognizable works of Chinese art.
This gorgeous pair of horses still retain much of
their original polychromy. The colours
complement each other beautifully. The red
horse has a white saddle, and it is likely that the
white horse once had a red saddle which has
since been lost. Both of these majestic creatures
raise one leg on the air as they turn their heads
to the side. Both of these features are eagerly
sought after by collectors. These elegant
sculptures are a testament to the admiration and
adoration the Chinese had for these marvelous
creatures. Although they were an integral part in
the expansion and defense of the empire, they
were equally regarded for their beauty and grace
as revealed by these sculptures.
- (DL.2084)
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