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

Label TextThe abstract appearance of this horse is typical of the Geometric period of Greek art with its slender waist, broad triangular legs and neck, and long slender tail attaching to the base. One of the most popular subjects of this period, horses also appear on vases like the amphora (storage jar) displayed in this case. In the same tradition as the bull next to it, this horse figurine was likely dedicated at a shrine or sanctuary. Horses were a symbol of status and wealth in ancient Greece as it took considerable resources in order to take care of these animals.