The Song (also spelled Sung) Dynasty partially
reunified the country after a period of turmoil
following the fall of the T’ang. Historically, the Song
are noted for their revival of the ancient Confucian
beliefs, ushering a period known as Neo-
Confucianism that would dominate Chinese (and later
on Japanese) thought for the next several centuries.
Although best known for their philosophical
contributions, this decorative architectural tile attests
to the rich artistic tradition that flourished under the
enlightened rulers of the Song Dynasty. Presumably,
such tile decorated the tombs of the royal elite and
perhaps once adorned their palace during their
lifetime. The tile depicts a horse and rider engaged
in a polo match colorfully painted with an impressive
amount of the original pigment still intact. Polo was a
popular aristocratic pastime associated with the
royalty, reinforcing the assumption that this tile once
decorated a luxurious palace. No doubt, this subject
matter reflects the vital importance of the horse in
the defense and expansion of the empire as well as in
economic matters. The strength and speed of the
horse would have aided communication between far
away provinces that is an essential factor of
maintaining stability in a centralized government.
Horses have been fabled creatures throughout
Chinese history. In fact, they were venerated as
ancestors of the mythological dragon. Horses were
vital to defending the borders against barbarian
invaders from the north. The need to import stronger
and swifter horses from Central Asia (as opposed to
the local Mongol Pony) was the primary factor in the
establishment of the Silk Road, the economic lifeline
of the ancient world that united the Chinese with
Mediterranean cultures as early as the Han Dynasty.
Clearly, horses were honored throughout Chinese
history, a fact most elegantly reflected in their tomb
sculptures. This fine painted panel is no exception.
Expertly depicting the speed and grace of this
majestic creature, this panel is both a splendid work
of decorative art as well as a fitting memorial to the
revered horse.
- (H.709)
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