A PAINTED POTTERY FIGURE OF A PRANCING ARABIAN HORSE, TANG DYNASTY

拍品描述

A PAINTED POTTERY FIGURE OF A PRANCING ARABIAN HORSE, TANG DYNASTY Scientific Analysis Report: A thermoluminescence analysis report issued by Oxford Authentication on 25 February 2026, based on sample number C126b71, sets the firing date of two samples, taken from the right side of the head and the right buttock, between 900 and 1500 years ago, consistent with the dating above. A third sample, taken from beneath the raised leg, indicates a firing date of less than 100 years for that area, suggesting the presence of an old restoration. A copy of the report accompanies this lot. Expert’s note: The Arabian horse has been introduced to China multiple times throughout history. According to legend, the Prophet Mohammed's companion Omar, along with his wife and a group of forty horsemen on Arabian horses, arrived in the Yili region of Xinjiang. Despite these introductions, depictions of Arabian horses during the Tang dynasty are rare. One distinctive feature of Arabian horses is their smaller, ‘dished’ head. This trait, which has evolved over time, positions the eyes to have a broader field of vision—up to 160 degrees. In contrast, horses with a more prominent nasal bone structure have a narrower field of vision and may be more prone to spooking. Arabian horses not only have less protrusion between the eyes but also possess larger, slightly more protruding eyes relative to the size of their heads. This unique conformation likely played a crucial role in the survival and adaptability of the breed throughout its history. China, 618-906. Finely modeled and painted in red, yellow, and black pigments, depicted mid-stride with its right foreleg raised. Its body, partially covered by an arched saddle set over an oval blanket, extends into a powerful neck adorned with a luxuriant mane. The head of the animal is held erect, its restrained features defined by rounded eyes, a strong jaw, and a pair of small, pointed ears. Dimensions: Height 44.8 cm Pottery horses such as the present lot held deep significance, representing high social status and immense wealth. Proudly displayed in the tombs of elite, they served as a testament to the deceased's prominence and position within society. The Chinese firmly believed in the continuity between the earthly and afterlife realms, emphasizing the need for essential provisions during the journey beyond. Thus, by including these majestic horses in their final resting places, the departed were revered, honored, and equipped for their transcendental voyage. Auction result comparison: Type: Closely related Auction: Christie’s New York, 19 September 2014, lot 719 Price: USD 40,000 or approx. EUR 48,500 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing Expert remark: Compare the closely related modeling, subject, and size (44.3 cm). Auction result comparison: Type: Closely related Auction: Christie’s New York, 9 December 2020, lot 83 Price: USD 25,000 or approx. EUR 28,000 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing Expert remark: Compare the closely related subject and modeling, with similar prancing pose. Note the size (51 cm).

图片