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Horse and Groom
Eastern Han dynasty (25–220)
Not on view
After the Han diplomat Zhang Qian (d. 113 B.C.) brought “heavenly horses” back with him from Dawan, an ancient kingdom in modern Uzbekistan, Emperor Wu (r. 141–87 B.C.) ordered two major military campaigns in order to obtain these grand beasts for his cavalry. This large bronze sculpture illustrates one such celebrated horse, characterized by an arching neck, firm legs, and stocky haunches. Its pointed ears and flared nostrils exude vigor. The knot in its tail suggests that the horse formed part of the cavalry, or possibly a ceremonial procession. The groom is also a member of the military, as indicated by the shield on his left arm.
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