Mounted Warrior

National Treasure #275
Gaya, Three Kingdoms Period, 5th century A.D.
Gyeongju, Korea

Two horn-shaped drinking cups are mounted behind a warrior who is riding an armored horse. The warrior wears a helmet, and carries a spear and shield. The earthenware assembly is mounted on a round, pierced stem with a wide circular foot. This pottery artifact is indicative of actual military practice; see the Bokcheon Museum for a reconstruction.