Earthenware Funerary Objects in the Shape of a Warrior on Horseback

Basic information

Designation

National Treasure No.91

Category

Craft

Era

신라시대(5세기)

Designated year

1962

Location

용산구, 서울특별시— 서울특별시 용산구 서빙고로 137 (용산동6가, 국립중앙박물관)

Coordinates

37.524041, 126.980350

These Earthenware Funerary Objects -- shaped like a warrior on horseback -- are grave goods excavated in 1924 along with a boat-shaped ceramic vessel from an ancient Silla tomb now called Geumnyeongchong (“Tomb of Gold Bell”) in Gyeongju. Of the two, the larger one (23.4 centimeters high and 29.4 centimeters long) seems to have captured a highborn warrior, whereas the smaller one (21.3 centimeters high and 26.8 centimeters long) appears to be his attendant. All these three funerary vessels are known to have been buried in the tomb to guide the spirits of the dead safely to the other world through land and waters. Both warriors are seated on the back of rather stocky, relatively short-legged horses standing on a rectangular base. Each has, behind the warrior, a comparatively large-footed cauldron with a hole used for pouring water and a tubular spout projected from the chest. The noble rider is in full battle gear as a cavalryman complete with pointed headgear and mud guards; his attendant wears a thick headband with a topknot showing; he has a naked upper body, a light load carried on the back, and a bell held in the right. The two ewers are regarded as very valuable items of heritage providing a wealth of knowledge on the beliefs of the afterlife prevalent among the people of Silla, clothing, weapons, horse trappings, and accessories.

Location