Artwork Page for A Large Painted Striding Horse

Details / Information for A Large Painted Striding Horse

A Large Painted Striding Horse

700–800s

China, Tang dynasty

(618–907)
Medium
Pottery with white slip and mineral colors
Measurements
Overall: 78.1 x 80 x 22.2 cm (30 3/4 x 31 1/2 x 8 3/4 in.)
Credit Line
Nancy F. and Joseph P. Keithley Collection Gift 2024.156
Public Domain
You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.
Location
Not on view
Print
?

Did You Know?

A groove runs over the horse’s neck from its ears to the saddle, indicating that its mane and tail were once filled with real horsehair to render the sculpture more realistic.

Description

Horses were symbols of status and power in ancient China, used for military operations, mobility, and entertainment for the elite. Around the second century BCE onward, pottery horses began to be placed in tombs as status symbols and companions of the deceased in the afterworld. This horse is harnessed with a saddle and is exceptionally large. It presents a well-bred specimen that strides forcefully ahead.
A ceramic sculpture with white slip depicts a horse in a striding pose, facing our left. Its right front leg is lifted mid-step while the others rest on a dark rectangular base, supported by a thin rod. The horse features an arched neck, open mouth, and a light green tint on its saddle. The weathered, off-white surface is marked by tan patches and a short, thick, textured tail.

A Large Painted Striding Horse

700–800s

China, Tang dynasty (618–907)

See Also

Visually Similar by AI

Contact Us

The information about this object, including provenance, may not be currently accurate. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please fill out the appropriate request form linked below:

Update or Correct Artwork Information

Imagery or Rights for Non-Open-Access Artworks

Report a Website Issue

Further Questions About This Artwork