HORSE WITH REINS AND RIBBONS

Description Horses of this type were ridden by a removable rider and consisted partly of perishable elements that have not survived. The horse has the short-cut mane, extended, stump muzzle typical of Han dynasty horses. The mouth is half-open, the froges are incised and the large round eyes protruding. The exterior is entirely covered in beige slip on which soft pigments are cold-coated. Orange, brown, black and white paint cover the harness and ribbons in loose strokes. Distinctives of this specimen are the ribbons fluttering on the neck and chest, the white-dotted straps and – in general– the sobriety of the decoration. The saddle is replaced by a pattern that recalls bands of fabric folded into a ring, secured to the back strap and set back on the rump.