Very large pair of Chinese cloisonné enamel and wood horses

This impressive and very large pair of horses was masterfully crafted in early 20th century China.

The pair of sculptures is executed using the cloisonné enamelling technique, whereby fine metal wire is used to create an intricate pattern which is filled with a coloured enamel paste and fired. The horses’ deep red bodies are elegantly adorned with gold wire formed into repetitive wave-like patterns, imitating the hair texture. Several parts of the animals’ bodies are painted in white, accentuating features such as eyes and mouth. Two hanging ornaments of a similar design hang from the animal’s neck.

The manes and tails are beautifully made from patinated gilt metal, creating an elegant contrast between the various parts of the bodies. Each horse is mounted with a vibrant, polychrome saddle. They showcase nature-inspired scenes filled with birds and flowers. Surrounding the wildlife are flowing shapes. All decoration on the saddles is executed using shades of blue, yellow, red, and black enamel paste. Parts of the saddles, such as the edges, are made from patinated gilt metal.

Both horses stand atop a wooden base magnificently carved with numerous symmetrical and nature-inspired motifs. The dark brown of the wood wonderfully matches the richer colour palette selected for the horses.

The incredible details executed to the highest quality, in addition to the equestrian theme, make this pair of horses a very unusual and desirable addition to one’s interior space, for example near an entryway.