Ca. 1368-1644 AD, or later.
A pottery mingqi, portraying a horse and a valiant warrior rider adorning its back. The sculpture exhibits the horse standing atop an integral and level base, assuming an alert pose that exudes a sense of readiness and dynamism. The horse's finely arranged mane, glazed in a serene pale blue pigment, accentuates the gracefulness of its form, while meticulous attention to detail is evident in the rendering of its hooves and tail, elegantly adorned in a contrasting black hue. The head of the horse, executed with remarkable naturalism, captivates with its commanding features. Large eyes, a pronounced snout, and a slightly parted mouth imbue the sculpture with a lifelike essence. To complement the equestrian portrayal, the bridle, saddle, and accompanying trappings are glazed in blue and brown. The warrior rider is equipped with a complete suit of armor, including a helmet. It epitomizes the martial prowess and valor associated with the era. The intricate detailing of the armor highlights the artisan's dedication to precision and authenticity, capturing the essence of Ming Dynasty military attire. With an air of authority, the warrior clasps a mace with a long handle to his left side, symbolizing both his preparedness for battle. Mingqi represents a distinct class of funerary artifacts in Chinese culture, specifically designed to accompany and assist the deceased in the spiritual realm. These objects, meticulously crafted with precision, encompassed a wide array of pottery figures and miniature replicas of various items, animals, or scenes. Serving as both a reflection of the deceased's social standing and a symbolic representation of cultural beliefs, mingqi held significant value in conveying material wealth and spiritual support in the afterlife within the context of ancient Chinese burial practices.
Size: L:315mm / W:230mm ; 1.77kg
Provenance: East Anglian private collection; formerly acquired in the early 1990s in Hong Kong.