Sancai Glazed Horse Value Guide

The Sancai glazed horse is a pinnacle of Tang Dynasty funerary art, crafted to symbolize the status and power of the elite in the afterlife. These terracotta figures are renowned for their vibrant 'three-color' lead glazes and represent the deep equestrian culture and Silk Road influences of ancient China.

What Is Sancai Glazed Horse Worth?

The typical price range for Sancai Glazed Horse is $5,850 - $5,850 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence and rarity of specific glaze colors, particularly the inclusion of expensive cobalt blue.
• The overall physical condition and preservation of the fragile terracotta and glazed surface.
• The size and complexity of the horse's pose, with larger or more dynamic figures commanding higher prices.
• Provenance and documentation linking the piece to the Tang Dynasty era.

How to Identify Sancai Glazed Horse?

• Look for the characteristic 'three-color' palette of amber, green, and cream lead-based glazes.
• Examine the glaze for natural dripping and mixing patterns that occurred during the original firing process.
• Verify the terracotta body material, which was traditionally used for Tang Dynasty tomb figures.
• Check for stylistic details consistent with 618-907 AD craftsmanship, such as the specific musculature and saddlery of the horse.

History of Sancai Glazed Horse

The Sancai glazed horse is one of the most iconic forms of Chinese pottery, originating from the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). These pieces were primarily funerary art, intended to accompany the deceased into the afterlife, reflecting the Tang elite's love for horses and their symbolism of status and power. The Sancai, or 'three-color,' glaze technique involves applying lead-based glazes in shades of amber, green, and blue, which would drip and mix during firing, creating unique patterns. These horses are not only artistic masterpieces but also valuable historical artifacts, offering insights into ancient Chinese culture, equestrian practices, and trade along the Silk Road.