The Mighty Horse of Asia

What is the Asian horse collectible really all about?  Well, a very famous horse owes its unique history and mythology almost totally to China.  I am talking here about the Chinese horse, which dates back thousands of years.  It special history began during the earliest time of the Chinese Emperor.  Horses have captured the hearts of human beings throughout the whole world.  Many believe this is due to their grace, power, and beauty.  So the love of the horse is just as strong in the experiences of nearly all Asian civilizations.  Even so, the symbolism of the Chinese horse remains very powerful and for good reasons.

During China's very old history, no animal has earned greater respect and admiration as the horse.  The Chinese horse was domesticated in the area of northeastern China around 5,000 years ago.  Since this time, the horse has been an integral figure in the creation, maintenance, and survival of the Middle Kingdom.  The animal's great need was obvious as early as the Shang Dynasty (1600-1100 BC).  It is true that horses and the vehicles they powered were often placed in the same tombs with their owners at death.  This was done so the horse could go with its master into the next life.  This tradition was so strong in its influence that later on many ordinary Chinese horsemen were buried with clay horse sculptures.

At the time of the western Zhou Dynasty (1100-771 BC), military strength was calculated by the number of war chariots available.  As the Empire grew, horses became necessary for maintaining contact with the whole country.  Horses were absolutely necessary for transporting goods throughout the vast area of ancient China.  Horses were also needed for the control exerted by the Emperor over the population.  The will of the divine Potentate was exercised by his soldiers who rode these magnificent animals nearly every where.

The Chinese horse symbolizes great power, strength, endurance, and importance.  Horses are considered to be loyal, as are those who own horse collectibles.  A horse collectible in your home is a very wise selection, as you can probably tell by now.  These are just a few of the reasons why the Chinese horse has exerted such influence over much of Asia.  However, there is still more to the story!

Harlan Urwiler

For more information, please feel free to check out my website at:  www.myorientalgallery.com.