This is an extremely well-executed Beautiful Tang-style polychrome Pottery Horse made approximately 180 years ago during the Qing dynasty. It is not uncommon for the various dynasties since the Tang Dynasty for artisans to copy objects dating to the Tang dynasty. This piece was thermoluminiscence tested at the Woollongong testing lab several years ago, the test result came back as the horse being approximately 180 years old, dating it to the Qing dynasty.
Tang dynasty horses featuring more than three colors in their glaze are typically known as “polychrome” horses. The term “polychrome” means “many colors” and it reflects the use of a wide variety of glazes to create vibrant and diverse color schemes on the pottery.
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While the famous “sancai” horses are known for their three-color glazes, polychrome horses go beyond this limitation and incorporate additional colors, making them even more visually striking. These additional colors could include shades of blue, pink, purple, and more, resulting in a more complex and intricate appearance.
Polychrome horses are rare and highly prized by collectors and historians for their unique artistic value and the technical skill required to produce them. They serve as exquisite examples of the Tang dynasty’s advancements in ceramic artistry and their appreciation for elaborate, colorful designs.
Tang dynasty horses are among the most iconic and cherished artifacts from ancient China. Pottery horses created during the Tang dynasty (618–907), are renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship and vibrant colors. They were often made as tomb figurines made to accompany the deceased in the afterlife.
The horses are typically depicted in dynamic poses, such as prancing, whinnying, or twisting their heads. They are known for their strong bodies, arched necks, and expressive features, which exude confidence and charm. The most famous are those with the “sancai” (three-color) glaze, which includes shades of green, amber, and cream.
Pottery horses were produced in various regions across China, each with a distinct style. For example, horses from the Tang capital, Chang’an, were strong and steady in proportion, while those from Feng Xiang were finely sculpted and often depicted in prancing positions.
Tang dynasty horses hold considerable esteem among collectors and art aficionados due to their historical importance and aesthetic appeal. They continue to be admired and appreciated in various forms of decor and art collections.
About Tang Dynasty Sculptures
