Ancient Chinese

China – Han Dynasty funerary horse mingqi terracotta with traces of polychromy. A attractive Chinese funerary figure modeled in terracotta, representing a standing horse in an alert pose, stylistically derived from the funerary sculpture tradition developed during the Tang Dynasty. The animal presents a powerful silhouette, with a prominent chest, a tall and slightly arched neck, an expressive head and a rounded croup, while the hind legs adopt a position that adds movement to the composition. The head shows a simple but vigorous modeling, with a pronounced muzzle, erect ears and remnants of the original painted decoration. Along various zones of the surface persist traces of red, black, grayish and whitish polychromy, especially visible around the eyes, muzzle and ears. The surface also preserves deposits, concretions and an attractive archaeological patina. The figure was conceived hollow, as demonstrated by the wide opening visible in the body, a technique customary in the manufacture of Chinese funerary sculptures of this period. During the Tang Dynasty the horse became one of the great symbols of prestige, military power, wealth and mobility of the elites. Equestrian representations were placed in the funerary accoutrements to accompany the deceased symbolically in the afterlife. Material: molded terracotta with traces of polychromy applied in the cold. Culture: China. Period proposed: Tang Dynasty, 618–907; probably 7th–8th centuries. Typology: funerary horse, mingqi. Measurements: 28 × 27 × 9 cm. Condition: archaeological state, with general surface wear, significant losses of original polychromy, concretions and earthy deposits. Cracks and ancient interventions or joins are observed in some extremities, particularly in the hind legs. Manufacturing opening in the body. See detailed photographs. Catawiki disclaimer: This object has been dated based on style by the seller. No further tests, such as a TL test, C14 test, lapidary tests, analysis of pigments or radiography scans have been conducted to check the integrity of the piece.

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