Clay, traces of paint
25-220 CE
China
Museum Rietberg
Details
Culture/Civilisation
Ancient China, Eastern Han Dynasty
Theme
Empire: Projecting Power
Subtheme
Do Empires Need Wars?
Case Title
Preparing for war
Display Location
Coomaraswamy Hall
Findspot
China
Measurements
27 x 34 x 10.5 cm
Accession Number
RCH 436
Description
First domesticated in the Eurasian steppes, horses were prized in China for their agility and speed, valuable in trade, warfare and diplomacy.
In 104 BCE, the Han dynasty fought the ‘War of the Heavenly Horses’ in Central Asia, capturing superior horses that strengthened their cavalry, and so consolidated the empire.
