跃马千年 踏春而来

Core Viewpoint - The exhibition "Leaping Horse and Whipping" at the National Museum of China showcases over 120 exquisite artifacts related to horses, highlighting the deep cultural significance and historical evolution of horse imagery in Chinese civilization [11][12]. Group 1: Exhibition Overview - The exhibition features five thematic units: "Excellent Horses Accompanying Civilization," "Chariots and Horses in Rituals," "Craftsmanship of Saddles and Bridles," "Hoof Sounds Across Miles," and "Divine Steeds Through the Ages" [11]. - It is supported by six cultural institutions, including the Gansu Provincial Museum and the Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum Museum [11]. Group 2: Historical Artifacts - The oldest horse artifact in the exhibition is the saddle horse figurine from the Qin Dynasty, reflecting the rigorous standards for selecting warhorses during that era [12]. - The Tang Dynasty black-glazed horse figurine is highlighted as a star artifact, showcasing the evolution of horse sculpture styles from the Qin and Han periods to the more dynamic representations of the Tang [13]. Group 3: Cultural Significance of Horses - In ancient China, horses were crucial for transportation and military activities, and they played a significant role in the ritual and governance systems [14]. - The exhibition includes artifacts that illustrate the management and breeding of horses, such as the "Horse Management" system from the Zhou Dynasty [15]. Group 4: Artistic Representations - The exhibition features a variety of horse-themed artworks, including jade carvings, ceramics, and paintings, reflecting the enduring cultural significance of horses in Chinese art [18]. - The "Four Horses" porcelain bowl from the Qing Dynasty symbolizes peace and prosperity, showcasing the horse's role in cultural narratives [18]. Group 5: Cultural Exchange and Influence - The exhibition highlights the influence of foreign horse culture on Chinese civilization, particularly through artifacts that reflect the cultural exchanges along the Silk Road [17]. - The Tang Dynasty horse figurines and murals depict the popularity of horse-related activities, such as polo, which originated from Persia and became a noble pastime in China [17]. Group 6: Future Engagement - The National Museum has designed a series of cultural products related to the exhibition, aiming to engage a broader audience and promote the cultural significance of horses [19]. - The exhibition is set to last for three months, providing ample opportunity for public engagement and education [20].