Tang Dynasty Horse (618 -907 AD)

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This ancient earthenware steed was unearthed from a Chinese tomb during the late 19th Century. Scores of tombs were discovered during the construction of the railway in the 1880s, each one revealing secrets about China's rich past. Acquired by Oldham antiquarian Francis Buckley from a British Missionary stationed in China, the ceramic horse was later presented to Oldham Museum in 1937. Francis Buckley believed that it was one of the earliest examples of its kind to arrive in Britain. Adorned with a vibrant yellow glaze and intricate red and black designs on the saddle, chemical reactions likely occurred within the kiln during firing, producing these bold colours. The horse's decorative style is reminiscent of the Tang dynasty, and it is estimated to date back between 618-907 AD.