Chinese tombs have been discovered containing life-size clay horses.
Chinese clay art goes back to the neolithic period beginning around 6000 B.C. If you are up for a challenge, you can try your hand at making a replica for one of these ancient clay treasures. You can start by using self-hardening clay which will eliminate the need for a kiln and all that's required to fire pottery. A tomb sculpture of a horse, for example, makes a beautiful replica and a fun conversation piece. Making it is also a great exercise in learning about the skills ancient ceramic masters must have had to make such a sculpture.
Instructions
1. Knead the clay like bread to give it an even consistency. Place the clay on a small board that you can turn, as you work all sides of the horse.
2. Form the basic shape of the horse using your hands. Form a protrusion coming from the top on one end for the head and neck. Keep refining the shape until you have the approximate outline of the entire horse. Form the curved lines of the musculature using the pottery knife on the hindquarter and chest. Look at it from the front to make sure you have the right width.
3. Detail the shape of the head and neck. Form the V-shaped space between the chest and the underside of the head. Note how the chest protrudes above the front legs. Form the desired tilt of the head at this point. Finish the head by forming the ears. Pinch the clay with your forefinger and thumb at the sides on top of the head to form the earlobes.
4. Detail the eyes, ears and muzzle using the knife and needle tool. Use the sponge to wipe away any tool marks and to blend these features into the sculpture. Make the ears stand up and keep the right proportions throughout by checking your reference image.
5. Form the curve on the upper neck and the back of the horse. Form the rump and short tail. Curve the legs in from the tail and then out at the knees. Form the straight line of the lower leg angled forward down to the hooves. Shape the base, about 1/2-inch thick around the outside of the legs to represent the ground that the horse is standing on. This will give the legs in place and add strength.
6. Cut out the middle section between the front and hind legs. Leave enough clay underneath on both sides (where the legs are) to support the horse. Wait until the clay has dried somewhat before you finish the legs. Detail the ears, the eyes and the face of the horse. Segment the straight-cut mane in an even line along the bottom of the neck. Form the curve of the clipped tail. Create the groove along the belly curving into the hindquarters and up behind the front leg.
7. Shape the strong shoulders and chest muscles in detail using smooth grooves and contours. Blend the surfaces to create realistic musculature by rubbing a damp sponge on the clay. Press in where there are grooves, and create a smooth surface overall. As the clay dries, remove more material between the legs and begin forming their muscle and bone structure. Work carefully as the legs must be somewhat dry to support the sculpture.
8. Use a small box to hold up the horse if necessary by placing it under the belly between the front and hind legs. Use soft foam on both top and bottom of the support so that the clay can contract without breaking as it dries. It should be thin enough to allow you to work on the inside portion of the legs.
9. Finish detailing the legs and hooves. Detail the hooves so that they look like they are on top of the base as if standing on rock. Detail the tendons and muscles running vertically along the horse's legs. Smooth with a damp brush and let dry. Remove the support once the clay has dried (24 hours or so). Smooth any remaining rough surfaces and remove any tool or finger marks with the damp sponge to finish the sculpture.
10. Use a combination of brown and red acrylic paint to decorate the horse once it has dried. Dilute small amounts with water to create a wash or stain. Distribute them randomly in soft tones. Use the brush to apply and to remove any drip lines. This will replicate the look of an authentic wood-fired Chinese clay horse.
