Chinese Figure of Standing Horse

Saddle on, mouth open, one forehoof stepping out. Ready when everyone else is.

This figure of a standing horse comes from China and dates to the 19th century or earlier. It is black granite. The horse has been a favorite subject of Chinese sculptors since antiquity, admired as an emblem of power, speed and status. A trimmed mane rises in a ridge from the forelock, and the head turns slightly with nostrils flared. A saddle and a long saddlecloth incised with scrolling designs sit on the back. The stocky body stands on a rectangular plinth, tail flicked out. It is 44 inches wide and 38.5 high.

Some horses have to be told to stand still. This one never needed telling.