Horseman of Raqqa

Horseman of Raqqa

Horseman of Raqqa

This equestrian ceramic figurine, which is known as the Horseman of Raqqa, has been a symbol of the Damascus City in Syria since Ayyubid Dynasty. The figure was most probably found in Damascus region during 9th century AD. The place is now where the National Museum of Damascus constructed on.

Elemental Analysis

Horseman of Raqqa

A figure of a heavy whiskered horseman was depicted with an Asian Turkoman facial highlights, with a disregarded plaited facial hair and a defensive top armor. Around the right front foot of the steed, there exists a snake which is moving towards the rider from his left. The snake is exhibited opening its mouth in order to attack the rider through his layer, yet he spurns it with his shield. Snakes are mythological beasts which were also utilized in Greek Art (i.e Laocoön and His Sons). The knight puts his sword up straightly into the air, and arranges to strike. There is a cylindrical piece leaving from stomach of the steed which might be accepted as an additional statue or a cover shield for the steed, however there is no doubt that the aim of the craftsman was architectural protection against time and corrosion while putting this bridle depiction.