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To celebrate Chinese New Year, the Art Museum of The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) presents “Celebrating the Year of the Horse”, the latest edition of its annual zodiac exhibition, which runs until 24 May 2026.

Before the advent of steam engines, horses served as humanity’s most crucial means of transportation. The exhibition features two thematic sections, “Part I: From Draft to Mount” and “Part II: Galloping for Desires”, which explore the subject from the perspectives of technology and culture respectively, showcasing the significance and rich cultural symbolism of horses throughout Chinese art and history.

Part I traces the evolution of horses in ancient China, from draft animals to riding mounts, and reveals the country’s close connections with the outside world during this transformation. Exhibits include an array of horse tack, vehicle components and related imagery, such as cheekpieces for horse control, rubbings of single-pole and paired-shaft chariots, and pottery horses equipped with stirrups – technological innovations that shaped human lives. In Part II, the focus is on classic horse motifs and representations on various artefacts, demonstrating their enduring presence in Chinese culture. Examples include “monkey and horse”, “horses and willows”, “heavenly horses”, “bathing horses”, “sick horses” and “dust rolling”. Each conveys distinct symbolic meanings, created resonance across generations and is a classic theme in literature and art.

The exhibition showcases over 40 sets of horse-related artefacts from the Museum’s collection.  Among the highlights are the monumental One Hundred Steeds and masterpieces by renowned equine artists, such as Dust rolling and Gaunt Horse by Zhang Mu (1607-1683), Steed in the Rainstorm by Gao Jianfu (1879-1951), and a new acquisition, Galloping Horse by Yin Shoushi (1919-1998). These exquisite paintings capture the spirit and elegance of horses in a rich tapestry of artistic expressions. 

Exhibition details

Celebrating the Year of the Horse