Chinese Tang-Style Sancai Glazed Polo Player on Horseback

Dynamic Mastery: Chinese Tang-Style Sancai Glazed Polo Player on Horseback

Capturing the energy, sophistication, and playful spirit of Silk Road court culture, this remarkable ceramic sculpture depicts a courtly polo player mounted on a spirited steed. Rendered in the iconic Sancai (three-colour) lead-glazed tradition, the figure showcases a brilliant palette of rich amber ochre, vibrant emerald green, and creamy lead glazes. The kinetic pose—with the horse bent forward in full motion and the rider poised in a dynamic turn—makes this an extraordinary visual anchor for discerning collectors and interior designers alike.

Design & Artistic Highlights

Vibrant Sancai Glaze Palette: Features luminous polychrome glazes where rich amber-yellow hues coat the powerful muscular form of the horse, contrasting sharply with the deep emerald green tunic of the rider.

Expressive Kinetic Form: Captures the thrill of the ancient game of polo; the horse is sculpted with an arched neck, bound tail, and bent knees, while the rider leans dynamically with a high topknot coiffure.

Courtly Detail: The rider’s unglazed ceramic face displays serene, fine features, providing a tactile contrast against the glossy, flowing glazes of the garment and mount.

Sculptural Integrity: Set upon a flat, rectangular base that highlights its balanced stance and architectural silhouette from every angle.

Specifications & Attributes

Style/Origin: Chinese Tang Dynasty Manner (Sancai Pottery)

Medium: Earthenware with Polychrome Lead Glazes & Un-glazed Pigmented Terracotta Details

Subject: Equestrian Polo Player / Courtly Figure

Condition: Outstanding decorative condition with minor firing marks, glaze crazing, and gentle surface wear consistent with hand-crafted pottery.

Curation & Interior Styling

The Period & Eclectic Interior: Placed atop a Georgian console, a lacquered cabinet, or nestled within an antique bookcase alongside leather-bound volumes, adding historical grandeur and rich earthy color.

The Contemporary Focal Point: Displayed as a central accent on a minimalist marble plinth, a low modern coffee table, or an open architectural room divider, where its organic fluid lines and brilliant amber glaze contrast dramatically against neutral stone, plaster, or matte white walls.

Condition Report:
Good with signs of wear commensurate with age.

Dimensions:
Height 28 cm

Ref: 00381