Chinese Tang Horse and Rider

A pair of ceramic mounted hunter figures, each modelled in the round on an integral rectangular base; horses standing facing with pricked ears, cropped manes and dressed tails, wearing bridles, harnesses and cruppers with studs and pendants; seated riders turned left in their saddles, directing their attention skywards, arms and hands positioned as though drawing bows (now absent); one saddle cloth possibly designed to mimic animal skin, the other with a floral design; successful kills slung over each horse's rump; extensive remains of polychrome pigmentation. 7.8 kg total, 40.5-41.5 cm high

Fine condition.

Acquired 1970-1990s. From a private West Country collection. Accompanied by two original thermoluminescence analysis report nos.C122g64 and C122g68 from Oxford Authentication. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.11517-195275.

A bronze weight formed as a stylised beast with exaggerated facial features, curved tusks, bristles to the back; hollow to the underside. 679 grams, 12.1 cm

Fine condition.

Acquired 1980-1990s. From a West Country collection.

A gilt bronze sword pommel composed of a discoid body and cylindrical socket pierced twice for attachment (one piercing occluded); a circumferential zoomorphic frieze in raised relief to the exterior, displaying a procession of vegetal forms alternating with real and mythical creatures, each with stylised anatomical detailing: a monkey; a fenghuang; a leopard (or other feline); a tiger; set with a moonstone quality khotain jade roundel, carved in high-relief with two sinuous fantastical beasts, swirling clouds in the field; some restoration. 387 grams, 76 mm



Acquired from Dandelion Fine Arts, Hollywood Road, Hong Kong, 1970s. Ex Prof. David Anderson collection. UK private collection, circa 2010. Accompanied by a copy of metallurgic analytical results, written by Metallurgist Dr Peter Northover (ex Department of Materials, Materials Science-Based Archaeology Group & Department of Materials, University of Oxford). This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.11706-198359

Khotain jade was available between the years 69 B.C. and 101 A.D. as a result of a military treaty. It was sourced from the White Jade River. This object is believed to be produced for a notable client, possibly even a royal one given the item's similarity to a finial excavated from the tomb of a Prince of Zhongshan. The object's original patina, prior to restoration, suggested that the vessel was part of a ritual which involved exposure to intense heat.