Tang Dynasty (618–907)
Height: approximately 78 cm each
Provenance: Hong Kong collection
An impressive pair of large Tang dynasty grey pottery horses, each standing approximately 78 cm high and modelled with elongated legs, arched necks and strongly defined bodies. Their differing head positions create a sense of movement and individuality, while the overall proportions reflect the powerful yet elegant horse imagery associated with Tang dynasty ceramic sculpture.
Each horse retains a removable saddle, an unusual and particularly attractive feature. The detachable saddles are separately modelled and fitted to the bodies, demonstrating the attention given to equestrian equipment and decorative detail. The grey pottery surfaces preserve areas of pale slip, earthy brown tones and natural age-related weathering, giving the pair a refined archaeological character.
Large Tang dynasty pottery horses were among the most ambitious forms of Chinese ceramic sculpture. Horses held an important position in Tang culture, associated with military prestige, elite status and the dynasty’s extensive connections with Central Asia. The combination of monumental scale, expressive modelling and removable saddles makes this pair especially striking for display.
Provenance: Hong Kong collection.
Tang Dynasty (618–907)
Height: approximately 78 cm each
Provenance: Hong Kong collection
An impressive pair of large Tang dynasty grey pottery horses, each standing approximately 78 cm high and modelled with elongated legs, arched necks and strongly defined bodies. Their differing head positions create a sense of movement and individuality, while the overall proportions reflect the powerful yet elegant horse imagery associated with Tang dynasty ceramic sculpture.
Each horse retains a removable saddle, an unusual and particularly attractive feature. The detachable saddles are separately modelled and fitted to the bodies, demonstrating the attention given to equestrian equipment and decorative detail. The grey pottery surfaces preserve areas of pale slip, earthy brown tones and natural age-related weathering, giving the pair a refined archaeological character.
Large Tang dynasty pottery horses were among the most ambitious forms of Chinese ceramic sculpture. Horses held an important position in Tang culture, associated with military prestige, elite status and the dynasty’s extensive connections with Central Asia. The combination of monumental scale, expressive modelling and removable saddles makes this pair especially striking for display.
Provenance: Hong Kong collection.
