Ancient Chinese, Tang Dynasty Terracotta Horse with Removable Saddle, TL test - 42 cm
05
days
17
hours
07
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31
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Current bid
€ 150
Reserve price not met
Expert
Selected by Ruth Garrido Vila
Directed the Ifergan Collection Museum, specialising in Phoenician and Mediterranean archaeology.
Estimate € 6,100 - € 6,800
 | €150 | |
|---|---|---|
 | €130 | |
| €120 |
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Tang Dynasty terracotta horse with a removable saddle, measuring 42 cm high, 45 cm wide and 17 cm deep, dating to the 8th century with TL testing and provenance from a private UK collection.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
Tang Dynasty Terracotta Horse with Removable Saddle
China, Tang Dynasty (618–907)
TL tested
Dimensions: Height 42 cm × Width 45 cm × Depth 17 cm
A finely modelled pottery figure of a saddled horse dating to the Tang dynasty, one of the most celebrated periods of Chinese ceramic sculpture.
The horse is shown standing foursquare on an integral rectangular base, with a powerful rounded body, slender legs and an elegantly arched neck. Its head is held slightly forward, while the prominently raised ears and expressive eyes give the animal a particularly alert and attentive character. The facial features are carefully articulated, with clearly defined nostrils, mouth and eyes, while incised lines along the neck suggest the mane and folds of the skin.
Particularly noteworthy is the separately modelled and removable saddle, an unusual and appealing feature. The saddle is generously proportioned and decorated with raised borders and a long U-shaped panel on either side, reflecting the elaborate equestrian equipment associated with the Tang elite.
The modelling combines strength with considerable elegance. The broad chest, muscular hindquarters and sweeping line of the neck convey the powerful physique for which Tang horses are renowned, while the raised ears and animated expression give the sculpture an unusually lively presence.
Horses occupied an exceptional position in Tang China. They were indispensable to military power, imperial communication, hunting and polo, and became important symbols of rank, wealth and prestige. Ceramic horses therefore formed an important part of aristocratic tomb furnishings, intended to accompany their owners into the afterlife.
The surface retains extensive traces of its original pale slip and decoration, with natural wear and pigment loss consistent with age and burial. The slightly weathered surface contributes greatly to the archaeological character of the piece.
Thermoluminescence:
Tested by Laboratory Kotalla, Germany, report no. 01R280926. The analysis produced an age determination of 1090 years ±19.4%, supporting the early medieval dating of the terracotta.
Provenance:
Private collection, United Kingdom.
Previously acquired on the Hong Kong art market.
Condition:
Good condition considering its age. General surface wear, weathering and losses to the original pigments and slip, consistent with age and archaeological burial. Some old restoration to the removable saddle, professionally executed. Minor age-related imperfections throughout. Please refer to the photographs for a complete overview of the condition.
The combination of its strong Tang modelling, animated expression, removable saddle, documented provenance and independent TL analysis makes this an especially attractive example of Tang dynasty equestrian sculpture.
-Premium Authenticity Guarantee – Becker Antiques (Established 1966)
This is a high-value artwork, selected with the utmost care by Becker Antiques, a gallery founded in 1966 and based in a historic five-storey mansion in Amsterdam’s Museum Quarter.
Every premium piece we offer undergoes a rigorous authentication process based on nearly 60 years of specialist expertise. This includes:
• Detailed stylistic and typological analysis
• Assessment of condition, surface, and age-related characteristics
• Comparative research with museum and literature examples
We guarantee that this object is genuine, original, and exactly as described, with no modern, altered, or assembled elements unless clearly mentioned in the listing.
Becker Antiques is trusted by museums, collectors, and institutions worldwide. Each premium item is chosen for its authenticity, historical integrity, and exceptional quality.
For serious collectors or institutions wishing to receive additional documentation, we are always happy to assist.
Shipping
The figure will be professionally packed and dispatched in a custom wooden crate within three working days, shipped by FedEx with full insurance.
Seller's Story
Becker Antiques (Established 1966)
Founded in 1966 by Jan Simon Becker, Becker Antiques is one of the most respected and established dealers in Asian art in the Netherlands. Our gallery is housed in a stunning five-storey mansion built in 1891, located in Amsterdam’s prestigious Museum Quarter (Oud-Zuid), just minutes from the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the renowned Royal Concert Hall, “Koninklijk Concertgebouw.”
For nearly 60 years, we have specialized in high-quality and fully authentic works of art from China, Japan, Southeast Asia, and other classical cultures. Our main areas of expertise include:
Han–Ming dynasty pottery and tomb figures
Chinese bronzes, Buddhist sculptures, and ritual objects
Stone and wooden sculptures from Asia
Japanese and Southeast Asian artworks
Qing dynasty furniture and scholar’s items
Every object we offer is carefully selected for authenticity, originality, and historical importance. All items are guaranteed to be as described, supported by decades of specialist knowledge and connoisseurship.
Becker Antiques is trusted by museums, private collectors, and dealers worldwide. We take pride in offering not only genuine works of art, but also the integrity, expertise, and transparency that have defined our gallery for almost six decades.
For any questions, we are always happy to assist.
Legal Notice – Intellectual Property & Authenticity
All descriptions, texts, and seller information provided under the Becker Antiques profile on Catawiki constitute original intellectual property.
No part of these descriptions or seller statements may be copied, reproduced, or adapted—whether in whole or in part—without prior written permission from Becker Antiques.
Becker Antiques is the sole author and copyright holder of all seller texts used in our listings. Unauthorized use or imitation of our content, structure, or professional statements may constitute infringement under EU copyright law and may be reported to Catawiki as a violation of seller terms and misleading commercial practice.
All objects offered by Becker Antiques are guaranteed to be authentic and as described. We do not sell assembled, altered, or modern reproductions unless explicitly stated.
Tang Dynasty Terracotta Horse with Removable Saddle
China, Tang Dynasty (618–907)
TL tested
Dimensions: Height 42 cm × Width 45 cm × Depth 17 cm
A finely modelled pottery figure of a saddled horse dating to the Tang dynasty, one of the most celebrated periods of Chinese ceramic sculpture.
The horse is shown standing foursquare on an integral rectangular base, with a powerful rounded body, slender legs and an elegantly arched neck. Its head is held slightly forward, while the prominently raised ears and expressive eyes give the animal a particularly alert and attentive character. The facial features are carefully articulated, with clearly defined nostrils, mouth and eyes, while incised lines along the neck suggest the mane and folds of the skin.
Particularly noteworthy is the separately modelled and removable saddle, an unusual and appealing feature. The saddle is generously proportioned and decorated with raised borders and a long U-shaped panel on either side, reflecting the elaborate equestrian equipment associated with the Tang elite.
The modelling combines strength with considerable elegance. The broad chest, muscular hindquarters and sweeping line of the neck convey the powerful physique for which Tang horses are renowned, while the raised ears and animated expression give the sculpture an unusually lively presence.
Horses occupied an exceptional position in Tang China. They were indispensable to military power, imperial communication, hunting and polo, and became important symbols of rank, wealth and prestige. Ceramic horses therefore formed an important part of aristocratic tomb furnishings, intended to accompany their owners into the afterlife.
The surface retains extensive traces of its original pale slip and decoration, with natural wear and pigment loss consistent with age and burial. The slightly weathered surface contributes greatly to the archaeological character of the piece.
Thermoluminescence:
Tested by Laboratory Kotalla, Germany, report no. 01R280926. The analysis produced an age determination of 1090 years ±19.4%, supporting the early medieval dating of the terracotta.
Provenance:
Private collection, United Kingdom.
Previously acquired on the Hong Kong art market.
Condition:
Good condition considering its age. General surface wear, weathering and losses to the original pigments and slip, consistent with age and archaeological burial. Some old restoration to the removable saddle, professionally executed. Minor age-related imperfections throughout. Please refer to the photographs for a complete overview of the condition.
The combination of its strong Tang modelling, animated expression, removable saddle, documented provenance and independent TL analysis makes this an especially attractive example of Tang dynasty equestrian sculpture.
-Premium Authenticity Guarantee – Becker Antiques (Established 1966)
This is a high-value artwork, selected with the utmost care by Becker Antiques, a gallery founded in 1966 and based in a historic five-storey mansion in Amsterdam’s Museum Quarter.
Every premium piece we offer undergoes a rigorous authentication process based on nearly 60 years of specialist expertise. This includes:
• Detailed stylistic and typological analysis
• Assessment of condition, surface, and age-related characteristics
• Comparative research with museum and literature examples
We guarantee that this object is genuine, original, and exactly as described, with no modern, altered, or assembled elements unless clearly mentioned in the listing.
Becker Antiques is trusted by museums, collectors, and institutions worldwide. Each premium item is chosen for its authenticity, historical integrity, and exceptional quality.
For serious collectors or institutions wishing to receive additional documentation, we are always happy to assist.
Shipping
The figure will be professionally packed and dispatched in a custom wooden crate within three working days, shipped by FedEx with full insurance.
Seller's Story
Becker Antiques (Established 1966)
Founded in 1966 by Jan Simon Becker, Becker Antiques is one of the most respected and established dealers in Asian art in the Netherlands. Our gallery is housed in a stunning five-storey mansion built in 1891, located in Amsterdam’s prestigious Museum Quarter (Oud-Zuid), just minutes from the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the renowned Royal Concert Hall, “Koninklijk Concertgebouw.”
For nearly 60 years, we have specialized in high-quality and fully authentic works of art from China, Japan, Southeast Asia, and other classical cultures. Our main areas of expertise include:
Han–Ming dynasty pottery and tomb figures
Chinese bronzes, Buddhist sculptures, and ritual objects
Stone and wooden sculptures from Asia
Japanese and Southeast Asian artworks
Qing dynasty furniture and scholar’s items
Every object we offer is carefully selected for authenticity, originality, and historical importance. All items are guaranteed to be as described, supported by decades of specialist knowledge and connoisseurship.
Becker Antiques is trusted by museums, private collectors, and dealers worldwide. We take pride in offering not only genuine works of art, but also the integrity, expertise, and transparency that have defined our gallery for almost six decades.
For any questions, we are always happy to assist.
Legal Notice – Intellectual Property & Authenticity
All descriptions, texts, and seller information provided under the Becker Antiques profile on Catawiki constitute original intellectual property.
No part of these descriptions or seller statements may be copied, reproduced, or adapted—whether in whole or in part—without prior written permission from Becker Antiques.
Becker Antiques is the sole author and copyright holder of all seller texts used in our listings. Unauthorized use or imitation of our content, structure, or professional statements may constitute infringement under EU copyright law and may be reported to Catawiki as a violation of seller terms and misleading commercial practice.
All objects offered by Becker Antiques are guaranteed to be authentic and as described. We do not sell assembled, altered, or modern reproductions unless explicitly stated.
Details
Culture
Ancient Chinese, Tang Dynasty
Century/timeframe
8th c.
Name of object
Terracotta Horse with Removable Saddle, TL test
Acquired from
Private collection
Year acquired
2026
Country acquired from
United Kingdom
Condition
Very good
Previous owner acquired from
Antique market
Height
42 cm
Previous owner - year acquired
2005
Width
45 cm
Previous owner - country acquired from
United Kingdom
Depth
17 cm
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
Authenticity
Original/official
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