New photography by Shannon Ruff captured with a digital camera-2006.

Haniwa Horse Head

Artist Unknown

CultureJapanese

Date4th or 5th century

MediumTerracotta

Dimensions15 1/2 x 8 3/4 x 17 1/4 in. (39.4 x 22.2 x 43.8 cm)
Base: 7 3/4 x 9 x 13 in. (19.7 x 22.9 x 33 cm)

Credit LineGift of Walter P. Chrysler, Jr.

Object number71.202

Collections

Asian Art

On View

Chrysler Museum of Art, Gallery 106

DescriptionPottery horsehead with a cylindrical head with an opening at the end of the snout, 2 nostril openings, round hole eyes, opening at ears. Large round studded cheek pieces each side of head attach to strip bridle with studs at the junctions. Reins encircle neck. Strap around half of chest has zigzag pattern slightly pigmented with red. Mane flat, rounded in silhouette; flattened horn-like projection top of head. Partially reconstructed, especially evident on mane.

Label TextHaniwa Horse Head Japanese, 4th or 5th century A.D. Terra cotta Gift of Walter P. Chrysler, Jr. 71.202