Overview
This is a powerful terracotta sculpture modeled after the famous 'mingqi' or tomb figures of China's Tang Dynasty. It captures the muscularity and spirited nature of the Ferghana horses, which were highly…
Preliminary identification
Tang Dynasty Style Terracotta Horse
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Story
The Silk Road brought 'Heavenly Horses' from Central Asia to the Chinese imperial court, sparking an obsession with equine art that lasted for centuries.
Maker / Origin
While the original Tang artisans were anonymous craftsmen working in imperial workshops, they established a standard of naturalism and movement that wouldn't be seen in the West for many centuries.
Condition & Value
The piece shows intentional distressing and simulated calcification to mimic age. There are some visible surface abrasions and minor losses to the 'encrustation' consistent with its style, though it appears structurally sound.
Full Research
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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Market Analysis
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
SOLD
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
SOLD
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
SOLD
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
SOLD
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375
SOLD