Here Come the Heavenly Horses

Oi Ling Antiques Aug 12-Aug 26

Mindful of Hong Kong's Olympic equestrian events kicking off on Saturday, horses in all forms and sizes have been invading museums and galleries alike. The latest herd arrives at Oi Ling Antiques next week in 'Here Come the Heavenly Horses', featuring antiques and related accessories, some from private collections.

Gallery owner Chiang Oi-ling says the exhibition's main purpose is to explore the varied depictions of the horse throughout history.

Recent archaeological finds of carriage tracks in China date back more than 6,000 years. The Chinese are credited with inventions such as the stirrup and horse collar. 'To commemorate one's contribution to the country, the emperor would present them with a horse,' says Chiang.

Crucial in warfare and in transportation, the horse was essential. 'In ancient times, a good horse policy meant a strong country,' she says.

During the Han dynasty (206BC-AD220), Emperor Han Wudi imported a superior breed of horses from modern-day Afghanistan and Uzbekistan, calling them Heavenly Horses. As they were swift, it was believed horses were close relatives of dragons. Horse sculptures of this period are both realistic and stylised, with a slightly oversized head and projected jaw, to highlight inner strength. 'A good piece of art had to convey strong spirit and power,' she says of the Han style.