Chinese Han Dynasty Wooden Decorated Jar

A ceramic horse and rider figure modelled in the round standing on a rectangular base, the animal's head bowed down and turned slightly left, shown with a long and immaculately-kept mane, short dressed tail, saddle cloth decorated with an 'animal skin' pattern and a harness adorned with pendants; the male rider seated in the saddle wearing a knee-length robe and riding boots, his arms positioned to hold reins (absent), a domestic dog perched on a covering behind him; semi-naturalistic anatomical detailing to both figures, the rider shown with a full beard and mustache, wearing a cap. 3.9 kg, 42 cm high



Acquired 1980s-1990s. Ex West Country collection. Accompanied by an original thermoluminescence analysis report no. C122f84 from Oxford Authentication. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.11702-199228.

A ceramic horse and female rider figure, modelled in the round on a rhomboidal base; the horse portrayed with semi-naturalistic anatomical detailing, medium-length mane, short tail dressed with a ribbon, its head angled slightly downwards and ears pricked forwards; the female rider modelled seated in a saddle, wearing a knee-length robe and boots, arms held in front of her body, hands held in a gripping position to accept reins (absent), her hair dressed in a top knot, stylised facial features; extensive remains of polychrome pigmentation. 5.1 kg, 45 cm high



Acquired in the 1990s. From a North Yorkshire private collection, UK. Accompanied by an original thermoluminescence analysis report no.C122h21 from Oxford Authentication.

In Tang art, poetry and painting the horse was exalted. The delight taken in portraying horses became an end in itself. Women were made to mount them, according to the Tang conception, so that the two can be considered together, introducing in China a fashion from Kotan.

A large mottled green stone bi disc with central hole; the disc sub-rectangular in cross section, gently tapering towards the outer edge; mounted on a custom-made display stand. 7.75 kg total, 65 cm high including stand



French collection, 1960s-early 2000s. From an important Paris gallery, France.