Exceptional 9th Century Chinese Tang Dynasty Pottery Horse Museum Quality

Exceptional 9th-Century Chinese Tang Dynasty Pottery Horse Museum Quality This is a superb and highly evocative original Chinese Tang Dynasty terracotta horse dating from the 9th century AD, a remarkable survivor from one of China's greatest artistic periods. Expertly modelled with its head lowered in a natural grazing pose, the horse displays the elegant proportions and quiet dignity for which Tang Dynasty equestrian sculptures are celebrated. It retains traces of its original hand-painted pigments, including warm ochre, cream and reddish-orange decoration, together with an elaborately detailed saddle cloth featuring finely incised scrolling motifs. These surviving remnants of polychrome decoration greatly enhance both its visual appeal and historical significance. During the Tang Dynasty (AD 618–907), horses were regarded as powerful symbols of wealth, prestige and military strength. Sculptures such as this were created as mingqi (spirit objects) and placed within the tombs of nobles and high-ranking officials to accompany and protect them in the afterlife. The finest examples are admired today for their remarkable realism, expressive modelling and enduring sense of movement. The sculptor has beautifully captured the gentle character of the animal, with its lowered head, alert ears and graceful stance conveying a wonderful sense of calm and naturalism. The beautifully weathered surface and authentic age-related patina further testify to its considerable antiquity. Presented in honest, untouched condition commensurate with its great age of over 1,100 years, this outstanding Tang Dynasty horse would make a magnificent centrepiece for any collection of Chinese antiquities, Asian works of art, or museum-quality decorative interiors. A rare opportunity to acquire an authentic 9th-century Tang Dynasty sculpture that combines historical importance, artistic excellence and timeless decorative appeal. Attributes: Chinese Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD) Circa: 8th - 9th Century Condition: Stunning condition commensurate with its age - museum quality ^^ Fast & Free UK Delivery Included^^ *A Certificate of Authenticity (COA) will be provided by artsonline with this piece* Delivery Artsonline UK ships worldwide daily, using only fully insured, priority, and fully tracked delivery services. We take great care and plenty of time to ensure the safe transportation of the Fine Art and Antique pieces we sell. We pack extremely carefully, so you can rest assured that your piece will arrive with you in perfect condition. For larger paintings, antique furniture pieces, and fragile items that can not be sent via the normal postal services, we use professional door-to-door delivery providers, who will always strive to deliver your piece promptly, within approx. 7-14 working days. Returns Policy Artsonline provides a genuine no-quibble 14-day money-back refund policy (excluding the cost of Postage and Packaging). Pay securely - Telephone orders welcome Image result for payments accepted logos Secure-Payment-Vpadeb-sa-la-go-th-et-an-gt-0042386-BACS-Order-PayPal-M/Card