Horse
Tang dynasty (618–907), first half of 8th century
China
China
In Tang-dynasty China, horses were treasured for their military value and their use in aristocratic sports. The finest steeds were imported from Central Asia and from China’s northwestern neighbors. In this model for the afterlife, the sculptor captured the horse’s power and grace as well as its spirit and alertness. The harness ornaments closely resemble those used in real life.
Earthenware with three-color (sancai) lead glazes