Model of a saddled horse 三彩馬
Tang dynasty, late 7th or 8th c.
CB-CC-1964-5
Horses are among the most popular subjects of sancai ware. The breed depicted here shows the sturdy but fleet-footed Tang cavalry mount, popular at a time when all manner of goods and people made their way along the Silk Roads.
Tomb dignitary 三彩文吏俑
Tang dynasty, late 7th or 8th c.
CB-CC-1966-4
These ceramics form part of the tomb furnishings which would accompany the deceased. Tang burials included many figures of animals, servants and retainers, known collectively as mingqi 明器, which were designed to recreate daily living in the afterlife.