Model of a horse’s head
This sculpture depicts the head of a Bactrian horse, a breed brought to China from Central Asia that captivated the Han-dynasty emperor and his court. Admired for their strength, stature, and noble bearing, these “heavenly horses” were likened to dragons—mythical creatures believed to soar through the skies and carry riders to the land of the immortals.
Artwork Details
- 漢 陶馬頭
- Title: Model of a horse’s head
- Period: Han dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE)
- Culture: China
- Medium: Earthenware
- Dimensions: H. 8 3/4 in. (22.2 cm); L. 11 in. (27.9 cm)
- Classification: Tomb Pottery
- Credit Line: Gift of Mrs. Samuel T. Peters, 1926
- Object Number: 26.292.45
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
More Artwork
A slider containing 5 items.
Press the down key to skip to the last item.
Press the down key to skip to the last item.
ca. 2650–2350 BCE
ca. 1000
ca. 1000
12th–13th century
1713–22
Research Resources
The Met provides unparalleled resources for research and welcomes an international community of students and scholars. The Met's Open Access API is where creators and researchers can connect to the The Met collection. Open Access data and public domain images are available for unrestricted commercial and noncommercial use without permission or fee.
To request images under copyright and other restrictions, please use this Image Request form.
Feedback
We continue to research and examine historical and cultural context for objects in The Met collection. If you have comments or questions about this object record, please contact us using the form below. The Museum looks forward to receiving your comments.