Size

28cm(H) x 27cm(W) / 11"(H) x 11"(W)

Item Type

Figure

Region

China

Date

China, Han (206 BCE - 219 CE)

Main Colour

Grey

Other Colours

Orange, turquoise, white & black.

Condition

Excellent

Structurally intact. A few minor cracks. Some weathering.

Materials

Ceramic

Full Description

Han Dynasty Equestrian Soldier

206 BC- AD 220

Stoutly modelled horse standing foursquare bearing equestrian soldier seated upon turquoise and orange painted saddle blanket; Equestrian wears a black tunic with thick white collar and orange hem, thought to constitute a vivid graphic index to what was worn by soldiers during the Han Dynasty. Facial features sensitively moulded and depicted in black and red pigment, surmounted by tightly fitting black helmet. Arms crooked at right angles, hands drilled for reigns. Stylistic features to the horse consist of tall pointy ears, prominently hogged mane, flaring nostrils and solid musculature.

Such figures are known as 'Mingqi', produced expressly for burial; Intended to console, comfort and protect the deceased in the afterlife. Burial was a primary concern of each Han emperor upon ascending the throne; a special department was set up and entrusted with the assemblage of suitable elaborate funerary articles, such as this piece. Famous examples include the Mausoleums containing large numbers of mounted cavalrymen and foot soldiers found in the vicinity of the tombs of the first Han emperor, Gaozu, and the emperor Jingdi at Yangjiawan.

References: Wemun, 1966, no. 3. Pl. 1-4, 1997, no. 10, p.17

Cf. The Quest for Eternity. Los Angeles County Museum of Art, 1987, Catalogue. P. 105,fig. 15

Cf. Spirit of Han (London 1991)