The Shuowen Jiezi explains: "The character bo means a horse of impure color." Among the Wusun Western Supreme …
The Shuowen Jiezi explains: "The character bo means a horse of impure color." Among the Wusun Western Supreme horses, those with an uneven, mottled coat were called Jinbo, or Gold Piebalds.
During the reign of Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty, the nomadic Wusun kingdom in the Western Regions was renowned for its excellent horses. The Book of Han records how the envoy Zhang Qian returned from his mission with Wusun steeds. Struck by their majestic grace, Emperor Wu named them "Western Supremes."
These horses are large and muscular, with sturdy limbs, small heads, and clear eyes, giving them an elegant appearance. Gentle in temperament yet hardy, they fatten on grass in spring and summer and can dig through snow for forage in winter. Combining both strength and speed, they are suited for riding and pulling alike, making them a prized breed unique to the Western Regions.