Object Description
Large pair of Chinese cloisonné enamel horse sculptures
Chinese, Early 20th Century
Horses: Height 159cm, width 185cm, depth 71cm
Bases: Height 48cm, width 174cm, depth 69cm
Both: Height 207cm, width 185cm, depth 71cm
Executed in cloisonné enamel, the sculptures depict two magnificent horses, their bodies adorned with vibrant saddles. The bodies of the animals are mostly covered in red enamel with intricate metal detailing, and their manes are made from patinated gilt metal. Some parts, such as the underbelly are coloured white. Two ornaments made using the cloisonné enamelling technique hang from the neck of each horse.
The richly decorated saddles showcase a nature-inspired illustration full of birds such as storks. Surrounding the birds are flowers in addition to flowing shapes, executed in shades of blue, yellow, red, white, black, and green enamel.
The horses proudly stand atop wooden bases. Each one is expertly carved with a variety of symmetrical, nature-inspired motifs. The colour palette employed in addition to the equestrian theme makes this pair of horses an unusual and very desirable addition to one’s collection.