CHINA, QING DYNASTY, 18TH-19TH CENTURY

As symbols of speed and strength, horses have been favored in Chinese art for their prestige and powerful presence. Horses are also depicted as metaphors for the fine qualities of good officials, and embody the wish for immediate success. The present carving could very likely be a scholar's object, such as a paper weight, made for the literati or for those who wish to join the literati circle.