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Tang Dynasty Terracotta Horse with Rider
- This Tang dynasty horse is modeled in earthenware and has a rider atop its saddle
- The sculpture reflects the Tang period’s emphasis on balance, proportion and naturalistic form
- Horses were highly valued in Tang society for military, ceremonial and courtly use
- The work was created as mingqi, intended to accompany the deceased in the afterlife
- Get complete item description here
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Circa 618–907 CE
This Tang dynasty terracotta horse with rider is sculpted with a calm authority and balanced proportions characteristic of the period’s finest funerary figures. The horse stands firmly on all four legs, its head gently lowered, while the rider sits upright, conveying quiet composure. Traces of original pigment remain across the surface, which is highly rare.
During the Tang dynasty, horses were symbols of status,. . .
Circa 618–907 CE
This Tang dynasty terracotta horse with rider is sculpted with a calm authority and balanced proportions characteristic of the period’s finest funerary figures. The horse stands firmly on all four legs, its head gently lowered, while the rider sits upright, conveying quiet composure. Traces of original pigment remain across the surface, which is highly rare.
During the Tang dynasty, horses were symbols of status, military strength and imperial power, reflecting China’s expanded reach and cultural confidence. Equestrian figures such as this were created as mingqi—funerary objects placed in tombs to serve and protect the deceased in the afterlife. The mounted rider underscores the importance of cavalry and horsemanship in Tang society, particularly within elite and courtly contexts shaped by Silk Road exchange and cosmopolitan influence.
15” high x 14 1/2” wide x 4 1/4” deep
Provenance:
Private collection, Florida
M.S. Rau, New Orleans
| Period: | Pre-17th Century |
| Origin: | China |
| Type: | Figurines/Statuettes |
| Depth: | 4.25 in. (10.8 cm) |
| Width: | 14.5 in. (36.83 cm) |
| Height: | 15.0 in. (38.1 cm) |
Buy With Confidence
For over a century, we've placed important art, rare jewels and exceptional objects with more than 14,000 collectors worldwide, and have been recognized by trusted publications including Robb Report, The New York Times, Wall Street Journal and more.
On Approval
Examine select works in person before you commit
125% Guarantee
Full credit plus 5% annual appreciation for five years
Trusted Expertise
Over two centuries of combined experience across our specialists
