A genuine and well preserved ancient Chinese Ming Dynasty horse and musician rider, dating to between 1368 – 1644 AD. This large and attractive piece is a particularly decorative example of a famous artistic style.
The sturdy horse, painted in pale red and black, is shown standing on a short plinth. It stands to attention, the head raised in a pose of strict discipline, the eyes wide and alert. The horse is depicted with a complete set of tack, including the ornately decorated bridle. Details of the sweeping mane and long tail are incised, lending a sense of lifelike vigour and energy.
The rider's arms are held up to his pierced mouth, likely to hold a bronze trumpet or horn in antiquity, now long since perished. Ming Dynasty cavalrymen were expert riders, and this individual demonstrates his skill by riding without use of the reins. Wearing a distinctive conical cap and long overcoat fixed with ornate clasps running up the center, the fine drapery of the cloth hangs loose about him, hiding his physical form. The eyes and lips have been finely painted, adding further character to the piece. Decorated throughout in wonderfully vibrant red, black and white pigments.
This artfact is a lovely example of Ming Dynasty ming-ch'i art, a style well regarded for its high technical and artistic standards, realism in depicting the human form and use of rich pigments. Joined by other figures as part of a processional scene, this figure was intended to accompany an eminent individual into the afterlife, demonstrating their wealth and importance in both the world of the living and the dead. The subjects rendered in Ming Dynasty sculpture encompass virtually every aspect of life and provide visual documents of the nature of this great civilization.
Height: 15 inches. Length: 11 ½ inches. Great ancient decorative due to its large size!
Condition: Very good, reattached at base, possible minor restorations throughout. Good pigment preservation, as shown. An extremely attractive example in excellent condition for a genuine Ming Dynasty figural ceramic.
Provenance: From an important private collection, this piece was acquired by the previous owner at Christie's in 2004.
Authenticity: All items are unconditionally guaranteed to be Ancient and Authentic as described. For added security we offer a full money-back guarantee if a recognized authority disputes the authenticity of any object sold.
Arrives professionally packed! For fragile and high-value items that require extra protection during shipping such as this listing we use foam-in-place. Foam-in-place is a method of packaging that involves creating a custom-fit foam cushion around a product to protect it during shipping and handling.
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