Han Dynasty Antique Chinese Pottery Horse Head Funerary Tomb Figures - A Pair

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A 2000 year old pair of similarly styled antique Chinese pottery horse heads dating to the Han dynasty (206 BC-AD … Read more A 2000 year old pair of similarly styled antique Chinese pottery horse heads dating to the Han dynasty (206 BC-AD 220)

Large authentic painted grey clay terracotta sculptural tomb objects, one with red pigment, one with red over white slip decoration, both crisply molded, carved and detailed.

These finely carved horse head funerary figures feature excellent attention to detail and realistic characteristics, moldeled with an upright mane, the wooden ears missing, likely long deteriorated, a normal and expected feature considering the age.

The Han Dynasty horse head is a fascinating object that demonstrates the importance of horses in the culture and economy of the time. Horses were not only working animals, but also symbols of status and power.

Representations of horses such as these, as well as less common full figure examples, were placed in the tombs of important people, with the intention of accompanying the deceased on their journey to the afterlife.

Horse head figurines made for funerary purposes have been excavated from tombs dated to the Warring States period (475-220 B.C.E) and throughout the Han period.

Horses were highly prized in China after being introduced from the West. Chinese legend tells of a breed of horse called tianma that could run 300 miles a day and sweat blood at the end of the journey.

The remnants of strong organic red paint pigment visible, especially in the folds and textured areas of the figurines indicate that it was once painted red, like other horse figurines produced at the time, to illustrate this story.

Superb museum quality examples, sure to add sophisticated antique character, charm, elegant rustic warmth, rich historical depth and cultural interest to any space!

Dimensions: (approx)
Each: 6.5" Tall x 2" Wide x 6.5" Deep

Pair of two (2) similarly styled / not identical examples. Both in very good original antique condition. Stable, sturdy. Attractive appearance, with remnants of worn pigment, fading, nicks, chips, abrasions and accretions, typical wear commensurate with age, use, handling and exposure. See less