AI Reveals True Colors of China’s Bronze Galloping Horse: Restoring Eastern Han’s

Wuxi, China, 2025—A team from Tsinghua University has used AI and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy to make a stunning breakthrough: restoring the original colors of the Bronze Galloping Horse, long known for its weathered green patina. The analysis identified seven mineral pigments, including cinnabar (red), orpiment (yellow), and azurite (blue), revealing the statue was once a vibrant "red-maned, white-hoofed" Ferghana horse.

The digital restoration process, now available as a short video, shows the transformation from rusted green to vivid hues—matching the color(painted) details of other bronze chariots and horses unearthed from the same Leitai Han Tomb. "This proves the Eastern Han Dynasty had advanced ‘colorful gilding’ techniques, contradicting the idea that ancient bronze statues were plain," explains Professor Li Jia, the project’s lead.

A limited-edition digital collection based on the restored colors has launched on China’s NFT platforms, but for those who prefer physical art, our offerings shine.

Want to bring this vibrant piece of history into your space? We offer custom bronze horse statues with hand-painted details, as well as delicate ceramic horse figurines and white horse statue designs inspired by the restored hues. Whether for home decor or a collection, order now to own your own "painted bronze horse" and experience Eastern Han artistry!