HORSE DECORATED WITH RIBBONS AND TASSELS

Description Horse of this type were mounted by removable rider figurines and consisted partly of perishable elements that have not survived. This specimen has a long, stump muzzle, an elongated neck and a short-cut mane that are typical traits of Han horses. The mouth is half-open, the froges are incised and the large round eyes protruding. The outside is entirely covered with white slip with cold-laid soft pigments on top. Peculiar elements of this specific horse are the lobed saddle, the long and lanceolate tassels, the fluttering ribbons and – in general – the elegant juxtaposition of the violet and orange colours on a white background. Dating these figurines is difficult, given the scarcity of similar pieces unearthed during official excavations subjected of scientific publications.