Horse at Art Institute of Chicago

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Japan Horse, 5th-6th century Earthenware 31 1/8 x 33 1/4 x 11 1/4 in. Gift of Robert Allerton, 1957.248 Asian Art Gallery 102 This decorated horse figurine is a complete representation, including saddle, stirrups, and bell ornaments on its front and back. A strap at the front features an incised chevron pattern, while a metal ring used to secure leather straps at the back of a horse is clearly visible. Excavated in Ibaraki prefecture, northeast of Tokyo, such horses were likely placed at the front of burial mounds, surrounded by various figurines and animal forms meant to symbolize possessions for the deceased after death. Horses from Asia proved effective militarily and quickly became symbols of wealth and power. As divine beings with special spiritual abilities, horses have long been revered. Permanent collection label http://www.artic.edu/aic/collections/artwork/86366?search_no=2&index=4