Marble head of a horse

Greek, Attic

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 154


Traces of pigment on the ears, eyes, and stylized locks of the mane are all that remain of the vibrant color that once defined the features of this marble horse’s head. Scientific analysis has identified particles of red hematite and blue lazurite on the right eye and Egyptian blue on the mane. Equestrian monuments in stone and bronze were frequently erected in sanctuaries as dedications to the gods, and many colorfully painted marble examples were found on the Athenian Acropolis. This fragment may have been part of a larger sculptural group, possibly with a rider or a chariot, that stood in commemoration of victory in battle or competition.

Marble head of a horse, Marble, Greek, Attic

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Marble head of a horse, Marble, Greek, Attic
Marble head of a horse, Marble, Greek, Attic
Marble head of a horse, Marble, Greek, Attic
Marble head of a horse, Marble, Greek, Attic
Marble head of a horse, Marble, Greek, Attic
Marble head of a horse, Marble, Greek, Attic
Marble head of a horse, Marble, Greek, Attic
Marble head of a horse, Marble, Greek, Attic

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