Description
From what information I was able to gather online, this is a statue of a Tang Emperor Fat Horse. I am not sure if the metal is brass or bronze. It is heavily oxidized /corroded in some parts (mostly the front.)
I purchased this from a gentleman who claims he found the horse on a work site partially buried in the ground and thought it could be valuable. I love horses and wanted the statue, even if it were fake. I'm interested to know whether or not this might be real. There are no maker's marks or other obvious distinguishing factors. When held upside down, sand or some other material can be heard moving around inside.
The statue feels like it weighs approximately ten pounds...likely more. It feels heavy to me relative to the size. The measurements are:
14.5 inches long
6 inches wide
11.75 inches tall
I have seen somewhat similar statues online with regard to the general shape but not the same details or material as this particular one.
Any help or suggestions as to how to discern the value...if any...of this horse statue would be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much in advance!
Category
General Antiques and Collectibles
Medium
brass/bronze?
Distinguishing marks
None
Date Period
Unknown
Weight
10 Lbs +
For Sale?
No
Photos
Re: Tang Emperor's Fat horse statue - brass/bronze?
Hello :)
Awesome horse! Have you tried the magnet test? Copper and Bronze won't be attracted to the magnet(orvsvrsa) Brass will be a little drawn to a magnet.
Even if it turns out to be a reproduction, it is still very fine, and expect it will be of some value for it's visual appeal. :) Im not an expert, but have some bits myself that I'm researching. Good luck!
Re: Tang Emperor's Fat horse statue - brass/bronze?
Hi Tracey,
Thank you so much for taking the time to respond. I did attempt the magnet test before, and there was seemingly no attraction to the surface.
I love horses in general, and as you said, the visual appeal for people like me is enough to provide some value to the horse. I have researched and found similar statues but never the same exact one. I love collecting unique and interesting things, so I will happily keep it regardless. It's more of the curiosity factor that causes me to look for more information.
Good luck with your research and God bless!