中国古代，汉朝 Terracotta 一件精美罕见的彩绘陶俑——骑马武将 - 29.5 cm

一件精美罕见的 painted pottery figure of a mounted warrior

CHINA, HAN DYNASTY (206 BC–AD 220)

Height: 29.5 cm
Width: 26 cm

An impressive and finely modelled pottery figure of a mounted horseman, probably representing a cavalryman or military attendant, exceptionally attractive for its lively sculptural character and the extensive survival of its original polychrome decoration.

The horse is depicted standing foursquare, its powerful, rounded body supported on slender, carefully articulated legs, with a gracefully arched neck, upright ears and an expressive head turned slightly forward. The finely modelled muzzle, prominent eyes and open mouth lend the animal a remarkable sense of animation, while the well-balanced proportions convey both strength and elegance.

The rider sits upright and confidently upon the horse, his hands extended forward as though originally holding reins, now lost. His distinctive facial features are delicately rendered, with narrow, almond-shaped eyes, gently arched eyebrows, a prominent nose and a finely painted moustache. His serene yet commanding expression is framed by a close-fitting dark headdress.

Particularly striking is the rider's costume, comprising a vivid red tunic with contrasting pale sleeves and a dark rectangular panel decorated with a geometric pattern, possibly representing protective military attire. The careful rendering of these details suggests a figure of some status, perhaps associated with the cavalry or military retinue of a high-ranking individual.

The horse retains substantial areas of rich reddish-brown pigment, together with traces of black, white and red decoration. Particularly noteworthy is the elaborately painted saddlecloth, with its contrasting geometric ornament and bold red borders, providing a beautiful visual contrast to the earthy tones of the horse. The rider's brilliant red costume, pale complexion and finely painted facial details further enhance the exceptional decorative quality of the composition.

The remarkable survival of the original pigments allows the figure to retain much of its intended visual impact, offering an evocative impression of the vibrant appearance of Chinese funerary sculpture in antiquity.

Horses occupied a position of exceptional importance in Han Dynasty China, symbolising military power, mobility, wealth and aristocratic prestige. The development and expansion of cavalry forces played a significant role in the military campaigns of the Han empire, particularly during its encounters with the nomadic peoples of the northern and western frontiers.

During this period, increasing importance was placed on the representation of horses and mounted attendants in funerary art. Such figures formed part of the elaborate tradition of mingqi, or spirit objects, created to accompany the deceased into the afterlife. These miniature representations of the living world were intended to provide the tomb occupant with the status, protection, possessions and attendants enjoyed during earthly life.

Equestrian figures of this type reflect not only the military organisation and social hierarchy of Han society but also the remarkable artistic achievements of its ceramic workshops. Their sculptors combined close observation of the animal form with an increasingly sophisticated approach to human representation, resulting in compositions that possess both naturalism and expressive individuality.

The present example is especially appealing for the harmonious relationship between horse and rider, the distinctive character of the mounted figure and the unusually attractive survival of the painted decoration. Together, these qualities make it a highly desirable representation of the equestrian traditions of ancient China.

CONDITION REPORT

Very good overall condition for a pottery figure dating to the Han Dynasty, approximately two millennia ago.

The figure retains extensive areas of its original polychrome decoration, including particularly attractive red, white and black pigments on the rider's costume, facial features and the horse's saddlecloth.

Expected surface wear, scattered pigment losses, minor abrasions and age-related deposits are present, entirely consistent with the antiquity and nature of the material. Old repairs or restorations to the horse's legs are possible, as frequently encountered in excavated pottery figures of this type.

The composition remains visually well preserved, with an attractive overall appearance and considerable original surface decoration.

PROVENANCE

Private collection, Paris, France.

Acquired in Paris.

An exceptionally decorative example of Han Dynasty painted pottery sculpture, distinguished by its expressive modelling, richly ornamented equestrian figure and the remarkable survival of its original painted surface.

The combination of the imposing horse, the distinctive military-style costume and the finely preserved polychromie gives this work a particularly strong sculptural presence, making it an appealing addition to a collection of early Chinese art and antiquities.

- A certificate of authenticity from Becker Antiques (specialists in Chinese pottery since 1966, Amsterdam) will accompany the piece.

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