Bronze Flying Horse of Gansu Value Guide

This mid-20th century bronze replica captures the dynamic elegance of the original Eastern Han Dynasty masterpiece unearthed in Wuwei. It is highly collectible for its unique composition, depicting a horse perfectly balanced on a single hoof atop a flying swallow to symbolize supernatural speed.

What affects the value of Bronze Flying Horse of Gansu?

• The quality and detail of the bronze casting, particularly the definition in the horse's musculature and the swallow's features.
• Overall condition of the patina, with higher values for pieces lacking modern chemical oxidation or heavy corrosion.
• The precision of the balance, as authentic reproductions must stand securely on the single contact point without wobbling.
• Historical provenance or evidence of being an early 20th-century souvenir from the Gansu region.

How to Identify Bronze Flying Horse of Gansu?

• Verify the distinctive 'three-point' balance where only one rear hoof touches the back of a spreading swallow.
• Check for a greenish or dark brown patina consistent with early to mid-20th-century bronze casting techniques.
• Look for the characteristic 'galloping' posture with the horse's head turned slightly and its tail flowing horizontally.
• Examine the base for signs of hand-finishing or specific foundry marks common in 1900-1950 Chinese exports.

History of Bronze Flying Horse of Gansu

The original 'Bronze Flying Horse of Gansu' is a masterpiece from the Eastern Han Dynasty, unearthed in 1969 from a tomb in Wuwei, Gansu province, China. It is celebrated for its dynamic composition, perfectly balanced on a single hoof atop a swallow, symbolizing its incredible speed. This iconic sculpture has become a national treasure of China and a significant symbol of ancient Chinese art and culture.