LARGE CHINESE TANG DYNASTY TERRACOTTA HORSE - TL TESTED

Ca. 618-906 AD. A large horse figure depicted in a standing pose, with its head held high and its ears alert, conveying a sense of energy and vitality. The horse's face is particularly striking, with bulging eyes that seem to be looking intently at something in the distance. The ears are raised and adorned with colorful decorations, adding a touch of elegance to the animal's appearance. The horse's snout is another distinctive feature of the sculpture, with flared nostrils and an open mouth that reveals its teeth. The mouth is finely crafted, with each tooth carefully delineated and the lips beautifully contoured. The horse's mane is also a testament to the skill of the artist, with each strand carefully sculpted and arranged to give the animal a well-groomed appearance. The saddle on the horse's back features intricate design, and the horse's trappings are completed by an elaborate harness, with dangling tassels that add movement and grace to the animal's croup. Good condition, restored. This piece has been precisely dated by means of a Thermo Luminescence analysis carried out by Oxford Authentication. The samples collected date the piece to the period reflected in its style, whilst also showing no modern trace elements. The TL certificate no: C122c27 will accompany this lot. Size: L:715mm / W:680mm ; 16.4kg Provenance: From the private collection of a Somerset gentleman; previously in an old British collection, formed before 2000 on the UK /European art markets.