Horse-riding: modern equestrianism

A Yuan Dynasty painting by Chen Jizhi portrays an equestrian performance. [Photo/Artron.net]

Ancient equestrian sports first appeared among the northern nomadic people. During the Tang Dynasty, horse-riding skills diversified, and special equestrianism shows were performed as entertainment. There were also "dancing horse performances" during the Tang Dynasty with performers riding on horses in fancy dress dancing to the music. Equestrianism became a part of military training in the Ming and Qing dynasties.

A detail from the Qing Dynasty painting by Lang Shining portrays an equestrian performance in the royal court. [Photo/Artron.net]