Chinese Han Dynasty Type Painted Terracotta Horse Head, Mingqi Tomb Figure

A fascinating Chinese painted terracotta horse head, most probably from a funerary mingqi figure, stylistically corresponding to the Han Dynasty type, 206 BC–220 AD. The object has a compelling sculptural quality, with an elongated head, arched neck, raised eyes, pronounced muzzle, modelled nostrils and open mouth. Its fragmentary form gives it a particularly strong archaeological and decorative presence.

The piece is made from low-fired earthenware, with a porous terracotta body visible inside the hollow structure. The rough interior surface, uneven wall thickness, open base and granular clay composition suggest mould-formed construction with hand-finished modelling. The details of the eyes, nostrils, mouth and facial ridge have been shaped with direct sculptural attention. The exterior retains traces of red, ochre and dark mineral pigment, creating a richly aged surface with excellent texture and visual depth.

Such mingqi objects were made for tombs and intended to accompany the deceased in the afterlife. In Han China, the horse was an especially prestigious animal, associated with military power, rank, travel and contact with distant western regions. This head, even as a fragment, retains the dignity and symbolic force of that tradition.

On the basis of the ceramic body, low-fired terracotta composition, hollow moulded structure, hand-finished details, surviving mineral pigments, form, surface character and comparison with known Han painted terracotta horse heads, it is reasonable to describe this piece as a Chinese painted terracotta horse head from a mingqi tomb figure, Han Dynasty type, 206 BC–220 AD; final confirmation of age can only be provided by a TL test.

Measurements

• Height: 19 cm (7.5″)
• Width: 20 cm (7.9″)
• Depth: 7 cm (2.8″)
• Weight: 1127 g

Condition

A highly decorative and historically evocative object, ideal for a collector of Chinese antiquities or as a strong sculptural accent in a refined interior. The ears are lost or worn down, the lower edge is irregular, and the surface shows natural wear, pigment loss and old abrasions. UV examination shows no visible joins or repairs.

Shipping & Packaging

Fully tracked and insured delivery.
Shipping cost includes professional packaging, careful handling and secure postage.
Carefully packed using recycled materials where possible.

Please study all photographs as they form part of the description.
Questions are welcome.