The Year of the Horse:“The Excellent Horse” Partially Gold-plated Silver Medal
Name | The Year of the Horse:“The Excellent Horse” Partially Gold-plated Silver Medal |
---|---|
Composition | 99.9% Pure Silver |
Diameter |
70 mm |
Weight |
5 oz. |
Maximum Mintage |
3,000 pieces |
Image:Obverse |
The Year 2014 is the Chinese lunar year Jia Wu, and the Chinese Zodiac Year of the Horse. This image was designed and executed by the Chinese gongbi (meticulous brush technique) painter, Professor Chang Ker-chi. The figure of the horse that lies resting in the meadow foreground is gold-plated so as to highlight horses as earthbound dragons. Vigorous horses have the same high spirits as dragons. The horse is a symbol of strength and beauty, as implied in the Chinese proverb, ma dao cheng gong,or “horses guarantee success.” |
Image:Reverse |
The image features a multi-colored peony blossom in the foreground of a window lattice patterned on the shape of ancient coins. Together these illustrate with especial clarity the significance of the Chinese characters hua kai fu gui which translated mean “peonies in bloom symbolize wealth and dignity.” The fine gongbi painting of the peony blossom in the image is also the work of Professor Chang Ker-chi. |