Chinese Auspicious Black Horse — Tang-Inspired Prosperity Sculpture

Sculpture

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The Curio Cabinet Collection

Name/Title

Chinese Auspicious Black Horse — Tang-Inspired Prosperity Sculpture

Entry/Object ID

ML0104

Description

Modern Chinese Tang-inspired prosperity sculpture depicting a spirited black horse with gold-colored ceremonial trappings and red and blue jeweled accents, rising above traditional Chinese coins and gold ingots. Mounted on an inscribed acrylic base with decorative gold-colored feet, the composition references an imperial steed of Tang Emperor Li Shimin and combines equestrian strength with auspicious symbolism of wealth, achievement, and good fortune.

Type of Sculpture

Free Standing

Artwork Details

Medium

Cast metal

Subject

Decorative Figurative Sculpture / Chinese Auspicious Art Subject Black imperial-style horse rearing above Chinese prosperity coins and gold ingots, referencing an imperial mount of Tang Emperor Li Shimin

Category

Chinese Metal Art

Made/Created

Artist

Maker presently unidentified

Time Period

20th Century

Ethnography

Cultural Region

Continent

Asia

Culture/Tribe

Chinese

Inscription/Signature/Marks

Engraved Chinese inscription on acrylic presentation base, titled 中华吉祥—黑马 (Chinese Auspiciousness — Black Horse). Descriptive text identifies the sculpture as modeled after an imperial mount of Tang Emperor Li Shimin and associates the horse with dynamism, strength, wealth, prosperity, and good fortune. Probable translation: "The black horse leaps into the air, conveying extraordinary movement and imposing strength. Modeled after an imperial horse of Li Shimin of the Tang dynasty, it represents vigor and power. The horse strides across heaven and earth, attracting wealth and gathering treasures. Displayed upon a desk, it brings distinction and radiance to its surroundings, symbolizing good fortune and the fulfillment of wishes."

Dimensions

Height

7-3/4 in

Width

9 in

Depth

5-1/8 in

Weight

2,849 g

Condition

Overall Condition

Good

Acquisition

Acquisition Method

Purchase