The Shenzhen Museum has galloped into the spotlight with its latest exhibition, "Galloping Glory: Heritage of Tang Sancai Horse Figurines," bridging ancient history and modern sports. Featuring 42 meticulously curated sets of tri-colored pottery—including lifelike dancing horses and poised equestrian ladies—the display offers a vivid window into the Tang Dynasty’s golden age.
Hoofbeats of History
Horses were more than animals in Tang-era China; they symbolized imperial power, athletic prowess, and artistic refinement. The figurines, some never before displayed publicly, reveal intricate saddle designs and flowing manes that mirror period texts describing royal parades and polo matches. One standout piece depicts a horse mid-dance, a tribute to legendary performances at imperial banquets.
Cultural Legacy Meets Modern Games
Timed with the 15th National Games’ equestrian events, the exhibition underscores China’s enduring connection to horsemanship. "This isn’t just about art—it’s about how traditions shape our present," remarked a museum curator, noting parallels between Tang-era polo and today’s competitive equestrian sports.
Open through November, the exhibition invites global audiences to explore how a 1,300-year-old cultural legacy continues to inspire modern China.
