Ancient Chinese, Tang Dynasty Terracotta Painted Pottery Figure of a Female Polo Player on a Galloping Horse, TL Tested - 40 cm
02
days
02
hours
16
minutes
27
seconds
Current bid
€ 2,508
Reserve price not met
Expert
Selected by Ruth Garrido Vila
Directed the Ifergan Collection Museum, specialising in Phoenician and Mediterranean archaeology.
Estimate € 5,400 - € 6,600
 | €2,508 | |
|---|---|---|
 | €1 |
Catawiki Buyer Protection
Your payment’s safe with us until you receive your object.View details
Trustpilot 4.4 | 145304 reviews
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot.
This 8th-century Tang Dynasty terracotta figure depicts a female polo player on a galloping horse and measures 40 × 28 cm.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
An Exceptional Tang Dynasty Painted Pottery Figure of a Female Polo Player on a Galloping Horse
China, Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD)
Dimensions:
- Height including stand: 40 cm
- Width: 35 cm
- Height of the horse and rider: 28 cm
-Provenance: The private collection of Mr. J. P. S., a distinguished Amsterdam judge and art collector, the Netherlands. Acquired from his estate.
-Thermoluminescence: Laboratory Kotalla, Germany, report no. 01R140526, dated 26 May 2026, confirming an age of 1,310 years ±14.6%, consistent with the Tang Dynasty.
An exceptional and highly dynamic Tang Dynasty painted pottery sculpture depicting an elegantly dressed female polo player mounted on a horse captured in full gallop, its body dramatically extended in a powerful flying-leap position.
The horse is exceptionally expressive, with its front and hind legs outstretched in opposite directions, creating a remarkable impression of speed, energy, and movement. Its finely modelled head features alert ears, expressive eyes, a slightly open mouth, and carefully painted harness details. The rich reddish-brown body retains extensive traces of its original polychrome decoration, including contrasting cream, black, and white pigments.
The young female rider is seated confidently upon the galloping horse, her body inclined slightly forward in an animated sporting posture. Her arms are extended, suggesting the movement and balance required during the fast-paced game of polo.
Her beautifully modelled face retains delicate facial features, softly blushed cheeks, and traces of original pigmentation. Her dark hair is arranged in an elaborate high coiffure characteristic of fashionable women during the Tang Dynasty.
She wears a flowing pale robe with surviving green, cream, and orange-red pigments, secured at the waist by a dark sash. The carefully rendered folds of her clothing convey the movement of the galloping horse beneath her.
Historical Significance
Polo was among the most celebrated sporting activities of the Tang Dynasty, particularly within the imperial court and aristocratic society. Introduced to China through cultural exchanges along the Silk Road, the game became an important symbol of elite status, horsemanship, and courtly entertainment.
Women of the Tang aristocracy enjoyed a comparatively prominent place in equestrian culture, participating in riding, hunting, and other activities traditionally associated with the nobility.
Female polo players are an especially fascinating subject within Tang Dynasty funerary sculpture, reflecting the cosmopolitan character, wealth, and sophisticated lifestyle of China's golden age.
This sculpture is particularly remarkable for the dramatically extended galloping pose of the horse, the elegant female rider, and the extensive survival of its original polychrome decoration.
Presentation and Display
The sculpture is presented on a specially commissioned, custom-made heavy iron display stand, designed specifically for this figure.
Unlike lightweight acrylic or Perspex supports, the substantial iron construction provides excellent stability, secure support, and an elegant museum-quality presentation.
The discreet black metal support allows the horse to appear suspended in mid-air, beautifully emphasising the extraordinary movement and dramatic composition of the sculpture.
The stand is included with the sculpture.
Condition
The figure retains substantial areas of its original painted decoration, with age-related surface wear, pigment losses, and earthy deposits. The surviving colours contribute significantly to its historical character and visual appeal.
Scientific Authentication
Accompanied by a thermoluminescence analysis certificate issued by Laboratory Kotalla, Germany, dated 26 May 2026, report number 01R140526.
The analysis records an age of 1,310 years ±14.6%, consistent with the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD).
Catalogue Note
A highly attractive and dynamically composed example of Tang Dynasty equestrian funerary sculpture, distinguished by its spirited female rider, dramatically galloping horse, remarkable surviving polychromy, and elegant custom-made iron display stand.
The combination of artistic quality, scientific authentication, and provenance from a distinguished private Amsterdam collection makes this an especially appealing piece for collectors of early Chinese art.
-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 topological 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.
Guarantee
Guaranteed to be Tang Dynasty, legally acquired and legal to buy and sell under all applicable cultural patrimony laws. A Certificate of Authenticity from Becker Antiques, Amsterdam (specialists in Chinese pottery since 1966), accompanies the piece.
Shipping
The figure will be professionally packed and dispatched in a custom wooden crate within three working days, shipped by FedEx of DHL 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.
An Exceptional Tang Dynasty Painted Pottery Figure of a Female Polo Player on a Galloping Horse
China, Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD)
Dimensions:
- Height including stand: 40 cm
- Width: 35 cm
- Height of the horse and rider: 28 cm
-Provenance: The private collection of Mr. J. P. S., a distinguished Amsterdam judge and art collector, the Netherlands. Acquired from his estate.
-Thermoluminescence: Laboratory Kotalla, Germany, report no. 01R140526, dated 26 May 2026, confirming an age of 1,310 years ±14.6%, consistent with the Tang Dynasty.
An exceptional and highly dynamic Tang Dynasty painted pottery sculpture depicting an elegantly dressed female polo player mounted on a horse captured in full gallop, its body dramatically extended in a powerful flying-leap position.
The horse is exceptionally expressive, with its front and hind legs outstretched in opposite directions, creating a remarkable impression of speed, energy, and movement. Its finely modelled head features alert ears, expressive eyes, a slightly open mouth, and carefully painted harness details. The rich reddish-brown body retains extensive traces of its original polychrome decoration, including contrasting cream, black, and white pigments.
The young female rider is seated confidently upon the galloping horse, her body inclined slightly forward in an animated sporting posture. Her arms are extended, suggesting the movement and balance required during the fast-paced game of polo.
Her beautifully modelled face retains delicate facial features, softly blushed cheeks, and traces of original pigmentation. Her dark hair is arranged in an elaborate high coiffure characteristic of fashionable women during the Tang Dynasty.
She wears a flowing pale robe with surviving green, cream, and orange-red pigments, secured at the waist by a dark sash. The carefully rendered folds of her clothing convey the movement of the galloping horse beneath her.
Historical Significance
Polo was among the most celebrated sporting activities of the Tang Dynasty, particularly within the imperial court and aristocratic society. Introduced to China through cultural exchanges along the Silk Road, the game became an important symbol of elite status, horsemanship, and courtly entertainment.
Women of the Tang aristocracy enjoyed a comparatively prominent place in equestrian culture, participating in riding, hunting, and other activities traditionally associated with the nobility.
Female polo players are an especially fascinating subject within Tang Dynasty funerary sculpture, reflecting the cosmopolitan character, wealth, and sophisticated lifestyle of China's golden age.
This sculpture is particularly remarkable for the dramatically extended galloping pose of the horse, the elegant female rider, and the extensive survival of its original polychrome decoration.
Presentation and Display
The sculpture is presented on a specially commissioned, custom-made heavy iron display stand, designed specifically for this figure.
Unlike lightweight acrylic or Perspex supports, the substantial iron construction provides excellent stability, secure support, and an elegant museum-quality presentation.
The discreet black metal support allows the horse to appear suspended in mid-air, beautifully emphasising the extraordinary movement and dramatic composition of the sculpture.
The stand is included with the sculpture.
Condition
The figure retains substantial areas of its original painted decoration, with age-related surface wear, pigment losses, and earthy deposits. The surviving colours contribute significantly to its historical character and visual appeal.
Scientific Authentication
Accompanied by a thermoluminescence analysis certificate issued by Laboratory Kotalla, Germany, dated 26 May 2026, report number 01R140526.
The analysis records an age of 1,310 years ±14.6%, consistent with the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD).
Catalogue Note
A highly attractive and dynamically composed example of Tang Dynasty equestrian funerary sculpture, distinguished by its spirited female rider, dramatically galloping horse, remarkable surviving polychromy, and elegant custom-made iron display stand.
The combination of artistic quality, scientific authentication, and provenance from a distinguished private Amsterdam collection makes this an especially appealing piece for collectors of early Chinese art.
-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 topological 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.
Guarantee
Guaranteed to be Tang Dynasty, legally acquired and legal to buy and sell under all applicable cultural patrimony laws. A Certificate of Authenticity from Becker Antiques, Amsterdam (specialists in Chinese pottery since 1966), accompanies the piece.
Shipping
The figure will be professionally packed and dispatched in a custom wooden crate within three working days, shipped by FedEx of DHL 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. AD
Name of object
Painted Pottery Figure of a Female Polo Player on a Galloping Horse, TL Tested
Acquired from
Private collection
Year acquired
2026
Material
Terracotta
Country acquired from
Netherlands
Condition
Very good
Previous owner acquired from
Gallery / Antique dealer
Height
40 cm
Previous owner - year acquired
2002
Width
28 cm
Previous owner - country acquired from
United Kingdom
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
Authenticity
Original/official
Sold by
