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This information was automatically generated from data provided by MOA: University of British Columbia. It has been standardized to aid in finding and grouping information within the RRN. Accuracy and meaning should be verified from the Data Source tab.

Description

Modelled clay figure of a horse. Hollow construction of basic form with details applied. The horse wears a full multicoloured bridle, saddle blanket, collar and strap of bells.

History Of Use

Figures of the village offerings are made, usually by special arrangements by velar potters. These offerings are usually made during a village festival at a local temple. Clay horses, from the size of this example to over life-sized are offered, often five or six at a time and occasionally in even greater numbers as vehicles for the great village gods to ride on their nightly protective rounds. These are set up in front of or inside the village temple.

Iconographic Meaning

Horse: although not indigenous nor even common in south India, it is associated with the great heroes and the gods through popular history and mythology. It is the most common mount of the village gods.

Cultural Context

ritual; religious offering

Item History

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