Description
Description:
Mingqi are “burial objects,” often in miniature, which were placed in tombs and served to provide the occupant with what was needed in the after-life. This particular statue is made of glazed and painted terra cotta and exhibits a broad face, characteristic of horse sculptures during the transitional period from the Yuan to the Ming Dynasty.
Whereas, many of such tomb statues have “fierce features,” in contrast, this piece has a particularly warm and welcoming demeanor. It is lively but
more, so it appears friendly – almost as if the horse is a confidant with fond feelings towards its owner. This is what instantly attracted me to this piece.
Period: early Ming dynasty (1368 -1644)
Condition: One missing ear. A corner of the base appears to have been reattached
Provenance: Japanese private collection.
Dimensions: (cm): Length 37 x Width 12 x Height 40
Dimensions: (inches): Length 14.56 x Width 4.72 x Height 15.78