**Originally Listed At $1500**

East Asia, China, Qing Dynasty, 19th century CE. A lovely painting of a charming subject, six horses at play, skillfully painted on silk. Most notable is a spotted grey equine rolling on his back with a wide-eyed expression, raised hooves, and tail extended. To the right, a group of four frolics about, the white horse in the foreground playfully bowing its head as the brown horse in the center looks on, flanked by a pair that face opposing directions. Finally, at the far left, another brown horse appears to be fleeing the group, perhaps in an effort to ignite a game of tag. A sweet painting on silk and mounted on paper with a fabric border of champagne hues, all set in a custom matte. Size (painting): 8.6" L x 20.25" W (21.8 cm x 51.4 cm) Size (including border): 11.25" L x 22.625" W (28.6 cm x 57.5 cm) Size (matte): 17.625" L x 29.3" W (44.8 cm x 74.4 cm)

Who can say enough about the influence of the horse throughout the history of China! The horse played a significant role in the unification of the Chinese Empire, as the ancients could communicate to parties near and far due to the great speed of these noble steeds. The horse also assisted the military to conquer distant lands and grow the empire. As the desire for stronger, faster breeds grew, the ancients imported horses from Central Asia, leading to the creation of the famous Silk Road. This painting is somewhat unusual in that it depicts a young horses at play; just imagine the mature stallions they became!

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, 1995 to 2010; ex-M. Kobiashi collection, Hawaii, USA, acquired from 1960 to 2000

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#172757

Painting is probably a section of a scroll and has a few minor stains, crease marks, and expected darkening commensurate with age. Fabric border shows some staining and crease marks. Verso of paper to which painting is mounted has some staining and tape marks, but these do not affect the painted image on the obverse. While set in custom matte, the artwork can be removed from matte if desired.