Rajasthan War Horse Figure in Wood, Bronze and Brass, India, 1980s

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Rajasthani War Horse, Wood, Bronze, and Brass, 20th Century - India

This intriguing Rajasthani war horse, crafted in 20th-century India, … Read more Rajasthani War Horse, Wood, Bronze, and Brass, 20th Century - India

This intriguing Rajasthani war horse, crafted in 20th-century India, is an iconic decorative figure of Indian craftsmanship that pays homage to the legendary steeds used by Rajput warriors in the state of Rajasthan. In the rich history of this region, the horse was not merely a beast of burden, but a profound symbol of royal status, military honor, and bravery on the battlefield. These artistic pieces were created to immortalize the close relationship between rider and mount, capturing the majesty of royal parades and the heroic deeds of one of India's most famous warrior castes.

The creation of these sculptures reflects the meticulous folk art of the region, where artisans hand-carve the base figure using local woods such as rosewood or mango. The most distinctive aspect of these works is their lavish metalwork, as the wooden body is meticulously covered with sheets, inlays, and studs of brass, copper, and bronze. This detailed metalwork is designed to emulate the complex armor of war, face guards, and heavy ceremonial blankets that the real animals wore in battles and festivals of the time.

Anatomically, the vast majority of these figures are modeled directly after the Marwari breed, a horse native to the Rajasthan desert that stands out for its unique physiognomy. The most characteristic feature of this animal, faithfully replicated in the sculptures, is its inward-curving ears that almost touch at the tips, along with its proud and elegant bearing.

Material: Wood, bronze, and brass
Period: 20th century
Country of origin: India
Dimensions: 20 x 18 x 6 cm
Condition: Good condition, no visible wear See less