Horse and oxcart

China, c. 400–500 and c. 580–650, earthenware with traces of paint

In ancient China, oxcarts were vehicles used by wealthy people. Model carts found in tombs formed part of the representation of the deceased’s daily life. The horse is several centuries older and has a small, finely modelled head characteristic of the period. The blanket over the saddle shows that at the time the animal was represented, it did not have a rider.