Jianchang Horse

Jianchang Horse

　　【Major Production Area and Distribution】 Primarily produced in Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. Also distributed in counties such as Hanyuan and Shimian in the Ya'an area of Sichuan, and Yanbian County in the former Dock City (now Panzhihua).

　　【Historical Background】

　　The Jianchang Horse derives its name from the region once called Jianchang, which was historically famous for producing high-quality horses. The “Shu Horses” mentioned during the Tang and Song dynasties included the Jianchang Horse, commonly referred to as the “Chuan Horse.” According to the *Xichang County Annals*, Jianchang Horses were once presented as tribute horses, and this practice was also used to select superior steeds. The *Annals of the Yi People in Xichang County* state: “The Yi people regard funerals (referred to as 'doing white') as major events. After a funeral, hosts and guests would gather to discuss, each bringing out their horses to compete in a race. The horse that ran the fastest was named the finest steed. The Yi people often sought to purchase such horses, causing their price to skyrocket.” During the Qing Dynasty, martial arts examinations (xuan wu sheng) included equestrian archery competitions held at the Xichang military drill grounds. Before the founding of the People’s Republic of China, similar events were held several times at the Xichang Drill Grounds, involving 300–400 horses and organized by a selection committee. Horses that ran smoothly, displayed good posture, exhibited exceptional speed without breaking rules were rated as excellent, and both riders and horses were awarded red and green silk ribbons along with a gold medal. Horses that won awards were often eagerly purchased by buyers. In the past, they also participated in horse racing events at the Chengdu “Flower Fair.” Influenced by these races, the training of riding horses also became popular for a time. Xichang had specialists who trained horses for racing, known as “piao ma,” and those who did the training were called “jockeys.” They often selected well-built, healthy weaned foals with good conformation, carefully raised and trained them, then sold them. Local communities in the production area also placed considerable emphasis on horse breeding, feeding, and management, accumulating rich experience over time. All of these factors contributed to the development of the Jianchang Horse.