Glazed Earthenware Horse

Tang dynasty, 8th century

Powerfully modelled, with head turned to the left, this amber-glazed horse is an indication of the high value placed on horses during the Tang dynasty. Apart from their use by the government and military, horses were key in elite pastimes such as hunting and polo, with sumptuary laws governing their use. The inclusion of a large earthenware horse such as this one in a tomb was an important indicator of status and rank.