Exhibition Details
Symbolizing immense prowess across Asia, the horse was seen as an emblem of success and
elevated social status dating back to the fourth century.
It is likely that horses were domesticated during the late Neolithic period, around 2500 B.C., and were first introduced to China as means of transportation by bowmen living in Southeastern Europe and Western Asia shortly before 300 B.C. Horses were used not only for transportation along trade routes but also as chargers in war and were bred as such.
It is likely that horses were domesticated during the late Neolithic period, around 2500 B.C., and were first introduced to China as means of transportation by bowmen living in Southeastern Europe and Western Asia shortly before 300 B.C. Horses were used not only for transportation along trade routes but also as chargers in war and were bred as such.
Additional Details
This Lunar New Year, which begins on February 17, 2026, is the Year of the Fire Horse. One of
the earliest known mentions of the horse in the context of the zodiac is from The Book of Songs
(circa 11th–7th BCE), a foundational text in Chinese culture.
Another early mention occurs in a popular Chinese Daoist legend, in which the Jade Emperor held a race for all animals in pursuit of selecting the first twelve to finish as animals of the zodiac cycle. For 2026, the Year of the Fire Horse is expected to bring to the world a cycle of heightened passion, boldness, energy, and courage.
Another early mention occurs in a popular Chinese Daoist legend, in which the Jade Emperor held a race for all animals in pursuit of selecting the first twelve to finish as animals of the zodiac cycle. For 2026, the Year of the Fire Horse is expected to bring to the world a cycle of heightened passion, boldness, energy, and courage.
Location
Asia Society
725 Park Avenue (at 70th Street)
New York, NY 10021
Image: Horse. Circa 14th-early 18th century. China. Wood with brushed brown lacquer. H. 8 x L. 14 3/4 x W. 5 1/2 in. (20.3 x 37.5 x 14 cm) / courtesy of Asia Society, New York