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Chinese Tang Dynasty Sancai Glazed Horse and Rider, TL Tested, China

About the Item

A fine and unusual Chinese Tang Sancai glazed model of a horse and rider, Tang Dynasty (618 to 906 CE), early 8th century, China. This fantastic sculpture portrays a male figures seated in a saddle upon the back of a noble horse. The figure is a soldier, identified by his heavy robes and boots, and the distinctive hood upon his head. His hands raised and clenched as if holding reigns. The figure and saddle are of painted earthenware, contrasting nicely with the glazed figure of the horse. The horse stands foursquare upon an integral rectangular plinth. Its head is held up high, with eyes wide open, ears perked up and alert. The horse has been glazed in an unusual Tang sancai (three color) glaze of primarily cream, with splashes and drips of light blue and seafoam green to the body. The legs, ears, and forelock glazed in the same light blue and seafoam green. The mane and hooves glazed a deep amber. Darker lines around the horse's head and neck indicate it may originally have been fitted with a leather or fabric harness and bridle. Thermoluminescence tested by Oxford Authentication. A printed copy of the certificate will accompany the purchase. Provenance: Lester Wunderman (1920 - 2019)
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 14.5 in (36.83 cm)Width: 12 in (30.48 cm)Depth: 4 in (10.16 cm)
  • Style:
    Tang (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    early 8th century
  • Condition:
    Repaired: With repairs and restorations as expected, including to the ears, forelock, and the legs of the horse, and the arms and head of the rider. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor fading. In very good condition for age. With repairs and restorations as expected. With two drill holes for testing.
  • Seller Location:
    Austin, TX
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU894735240322
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