Han Dynasty. Horse body with detachable head (206 BC–220 AD). Terracotta. Length 50 cm. Height 43 cm. Attached QED Laboratoire thermoluminescence certificate. The Han dynasty ruled China from 206 BC to 220 AD. Spanning over four centuries, the Han dynasty is considered a golden age in Chinese history, and it has influenced the identity of the Chinese civilization ever since. From the reign of Emperor Wu (141–87 BC) onward, the Chinese court officially sponsored Confucianism in education and court politics. He also opened the Silk Road, establishing trade with the West. The Han dynasty is notable for its concentration on organized ceramic production. Horses are one of the most powerful symbols in Chinese folklore, being linked to the pure male strength, known as Yang. Horses were also symbol of speed, perseverance, imagination and youthful energy, and they appear to be the most represented subject in the art of imperial China. During the Han Dynasty especially, horses were treated with great esteem, being considered as the foundation of Chinese military power and an important resource for the Chinese state. One of the main reasons behind the promotion of the opening of a commercial route, which will be later knows as Silk Road, was the desire of Han emperors to acquire bigger and sturdier horses. Attached report of analysis by thermoluminescence carried out by QED laboratory. Provenance: Purchased by the current owner to an English Ancient Art Gallery (M.A.C). The Supplier warrants that he obtained this lot legally. Provenance statement seen by Catawiki. Important information. The seller guarantees that he is entitled to ship this lot. The seller will take care that any necessary permits will be arranged. The seller will inform the buyer about this if this takes more than a few days. Important: For destinations out of Spanish territory: all our objects will be shipped after obtaining CERTIFICATE OF EXPORTATION by Ministry of Culture of Spain. We inform our clients that it may take between 4-8 weeks.