Iron steeds of the steppe

The enduring traits of the Mongolian horse, which helped form one of the largest empires in history, continue to amaze herdsmen and equestrian enthusiasts alike ALEXIS HOOI

At the back of Mengke Gangbateer's traditional Mongolian tent-like ger home, a postcard-sized, framed photo takes pride of place atop the family cabinet.

In the black-and-white image, Mengke, a member of the ethnic Mongolian group in the Inner Mongolia autonomous region, is 5 years old. He sits on a horse outside the ger, wearing a big smile.