Chinese Tang Dynasty, 618-906 AD . An exceptional, world class, very large ceramic horse figurine in active pose with arched neck and head slightly tilted; the musculature carefully defined to the neck, chest and legs; the mouth open showing power and aggression; shallow channel to the rear of the neck to accept a separate mane; the saddle and saddle blanket carefully molded, colored with orange and ochre pigment; the tail shown docked and bound. Similar in style to the Sancai but this one is painted and not glazed. The quality of this sculpture and it's size suggests that it was for a royal tomb or a high ranking person. 8 kg, 61 cm (24"). UK art market, acquired prior to 1980. Oxford, England thermoluminescence acquired July 17th 2013, report # C113E14. All four samples dated between 618 AD - 906 AD. We have handled hundred of Tang and Han Dynasty horses over the years and this is by far the finest we have ever seen. The powerful pose is one that is extremely rare and I have not seen a similar pose in any museum or collection. Cf. Sotheby's NY. 23 March 2004, lot 595 for lesser example, price realized $226,400 (USD) : Also Sotheby's NY. 19 March 2007, lot 519, price realized $228,000.00 also a much inferior piece. Requires third party crating and shipping. Sold for $19,000.00 in our last sale to a non paying bidder.

Excellent condition; chip to tail