Lot 4
East Asia, China, Western Jin Dynasty, ca. 266 to 316 CE. A rare and sizable pottery mingqi horse with remains of the original white and gray mineral pigments are visible under the earthen encrustations. The short, stubby legs give the appearance of a robust Mongolian or mountain pony, and the mane is gathered into a bulbous horn, extending dramatically from between the perked ears. A saddle and blanket are draped over the horse's back, ready for a rider; these model horses were placed in tombs to serve the deceased. Horse pottery can often be dated based on the depiction of horse breeds, the smaller, stockier horses - such as this- suggest earlier periods, reflecting the Mongolian breed. In contrast, long-legged horses typically indicate later periods, when the elegant Ferghana horses were prominent. Size of horse: 24" L x 7.5" W x 22" H (61 cm x 19 cm x 55.9 cm); acrylic case: 32.25" L x 13" W x 25.5" H (81.9 cm x 33 cm x 64.8 cm)
Ancient China's use of Mongolian horses dates back to the early periods, particularly during the Zhou (1046-256 BCE) and Han (206 BCE-220 CE) dynasties. The Mongolian horse was prized for its resilience, hardiness, and ability to endure the harsh climates of the northern steppes. These small, sturdy horses were essential for the nomadic lifestyles of the Mongols and were integral to the military strategies of early Chinese states, particularly in defending against or engaging with nomadic tribes. As China expanded westward, particularly during the Han Dynasty, they came into contact with the Ferghana Valley (in present-day Uzbekistan), famous for its larger and stronger Ferghana horses, often referred to as "heavenly horses" in Chinese sources. These horses were superior in speed and endurance compared to the Mongolian breed and were seen as more suitable for cavalry, a critical aspect of military power. The shift from Mongolian to Ferghana horses is well-documented in the art and pottery of these periods, serving as a visual record of the changing military and cultural dynamics in ancient China.
Compare to a similar style horse listed in Christie's New York 1995 sale "Chinese Ceramics from the Scheinman Collection," lot # 22.
Provenance: private Park City, Utah, USA collection, purchased 1996; ex-Peter C.J. Malone Works of Art, Los Angeles, California, USA
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#188611
- Condition: Comes in a protective acrylic case, with a bottom base/ stand, and the upper box is removable. Possible repairs to the tip of tail and protruding mane which might be reattached, but if so, repairs are nearly indiscernible. Chips to hooves. Heavy mineral and earthen deposits on the surface as shown.
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