Votive Statuette of a Horse

Place of OriginGreece

Date8th century BCE

Dimensions2 1/4 × 1 7/8 × 3/8 in., 32.1g (5.7 × 4.8 × 1 cm)

MediumBronze

ClassificationSculpture

Credit LineGift of the Popplestone Family

Object number

2006.99

On View

Toledo Museum of Art (2445 Monroe Street), Gallery, 02, Classic

DescriptionA small, solid-cast bronze figurine depicting a standing horse. The figure is highly stylized with abstract, geometric forms. It has a slender, elongated body, a prominent, crested mane, and a long, thick tail that curves down to connect with the solid, rectangular base. The legs are broad and triangular, and the head is cylindrical and tapering with forward-pointing ears.

Label TextThe abstract appearance of this horse is typical of the Geometric period of Greek art (about 900–700 BCE), with its slender waist, broad triangular legs, crested mane, and long tail attaching to the base. Small bronze figures of animals, especially horses, were one of the most popular subjects of this period and were often dedicated at a shrine or sanctuary. Horses were a powerful symbol of status and wealth in ancient Greece, as it took considerable resources to care for these animals. This figurine, therefore, would have been a valuable and pious offering to a god.Published ReferencesSotheby's, London, Antiquities from the Erlenmeyer Collection, July 9, 1990, no. 8 (illus.).

Sotheby's, New York, Antiquities, June 12, 2003, lot 185 (illus.).