Tang Dynasty, 618-907 A.D. A pair of ceramic mounted hunters, each modelled with semi-naturalistic anatomical detailing standing on rectangular bases, and extensive remains of painted pigmentation: one horse with a cropped mane, painted bridle, harness and decorative saddlecloth, prey animal slung behind saddle, rider in the saddle leaning forwards with one arm raised, hand in a gripping position forming a socket to accept a weapon or other object; one horse ornately caparisoned and with a flowing mane, a hunting hound straddling the horse in front of the mounted rider. Cf. The British Museum, museum number 1938,0524.114, for similar horses modelled in a different pose. 7.7 kg total, 39 cm high (15 3/8 in.). Acquired 1990s. West Country, UK, collection. Apanied by a positive original thermoluminescence analysis report sample no.C122f85, from Oxford Authentication for one figure. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is apanied by AIAD certificate no.11364-193072.