Han Dynasty Two-Part Horse

A charming Tang dynasty painted pottery figure of a horse and mounted noble rider. TL tested by Oxford Authentication. The horse portrayed standing fours...

Tombs of the Han dynasty (206 BC-220 AD) were typically furnished with model figures and other objects believed to be necessary for a safe journey to the afterlife. Historical records indicate that when important military officials died, the imperial Han court would give them elaborate funerals, including a full military cortege. It is likely that this figure of a horse and rider was originally part of a model funerary retinue comprised of soldiers and cavalrymen that would have been placed in such a tomb. Beautifully proportioned Han dynasty polychrome painted terracotta horse and rider. The warrior is decorated with a painted orange and black tunic. A quiver is visible attached to his back. He would have originally held a wooden bow in between his hands that has rotted away over the centuries. He is riding a beautifully sculpted white horse. TL tested...

This particular horse sculpture exemplifies the typical pose of Han-period equine figures—a neighing steed with its mouth wide open. Like many tomb sculptures of the era, it is crafted in unglazed, with its ears, tail, and legs separately fabricated in wood or clay and slotted into pre-prepared holes. However, several distinguishing features elevate this piece beyond standard Han horse...

A stunningly quiet and elegant Western Han dynasty (206 BCE - 9 CE) high fired gray pottery figure of a female long sleeved dancer. The young dancer is portrayed in a moment of quie...