Bronze Figurine / Sculpture Decorative Object

The bronze figure of a galloping horse treading on a swallow in flight is a replica of a remarkable 2nd century figure. Dating from the Eastern Han dynasty (206BC - 220AD), the original piece was unearthed in 1969 near Wuwei by residents digging an air-raid shelter. Perfectly balanced with one hoof resting without pressure on the swallow in flight, it is a remarkable early example of three-dimensional form and of animal portraiture with the head vividly expressing mettlesome vigour.