Archaeological documentation shows that the first evidence of horses in China comes from the “Longshan culture? At Miaodigou (Henan Province), several fire pits dating at about 5000 BCE were excavated and found to contain the remains of horses. The accepted theory is that these horses were used for domestic purposes as well as for mystical sacrifices.
Horses were not only used for military purposes but for recreation as well. From the early Han Period (202 BCE to 220 CE), to the late Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE) dancing dressage horses performed for emperors. Also during the Tang Dynasty, polo and hunting became very popular for both men and women of all ages and social status. Hunt and polo scenes are a common theme for paintings and art of this period.
The Mongolians, led by Genghis Khan (approx. 1162-1227 CE) began their crusade to conquer China in 1207. The Mongolian’s traditionally led a nomadic way of life and the horse made the life of a nomadic herdsman possible. Their influence on Chinese art reflects this nomadic way of life. Mongolian artistic efforts were channeled into portable works of art such as, saddles, bridles and personal jewellery. Saddles were wonderful creations showing intricate creativity in metal castings, leather works, and embroidery. Even to this day, the Mongols spend much of their lives on horseback.
Since the inception of the Silk Roads during the Han Dynasty (157-87 BCE), silk had been traded for horses. However, China faced several periods where horses were of short supply. During the Song Dynasty (681-907 CE), tea was the commodity of trade and so began the history of the “Tea for Horses?Markets. China controlled tea production and attempted to maintain tea prices at an artificially high level in order to acquire greater numbers of horses. These markets were again used during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 CE) when horse populations were once again depleted.
The horse, in symbolism and image, has forever been a staple of Chinese art showing that horses have always held a special status in Chinese culture. Today the horse continues to play a significant role in China which boasts the largest equine population in its history.
Animal Carvings: HORSES
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