I inherited this from my grandmother. It is carved with a bald oriental older man riding a horse with many intricate carvings surrounding him. Everything is inlaid with silver.
17 inches tall and 8 inch base
Hello Carole,
Thank you for choosing Mearto for your online appraisal.
Based on the images and available information, this item is:
An early 20th century Chinese Wooden sculpture (17x8) of a man riding a horse. The image of a man riding a horse represented military prowess, strength, and the ability to lead troops in battle. It symbolized the importance of a strong and skilled cavalry, which played a crucial role in ancient Chinese warfare. Riding a horse denoted authority and leadership, as horses were expensive and only accessible to the elite and those in positions of power. It was often associated with nobility, aristocracy, and high-ranking officials.
In Chinese mythology, horses were considered messengers of the gods and were associated with divine qualities and celestial beings. The horse, as a Yin (female) animal, was balanced by the rider, representing the Yang (male) element. This symbolized the harmony and balance between opposites.
Very good condition
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