Horse
Tang dynasty (618–907), first half of 8th century
Medium
Earthenware with three-color (sancai) lead glazes
Dimensions
73.7 × 25.4 × 68.6 cm (29 × 10 × 27 in.)
Classification
earthenware
Department
Arts of Asia
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
111140
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
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.
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...