Horse: From Noble Steeds to Beasts of Burden

by Lorraine Harrison

For horse lovers, art lovers, and collectors of unusual, beautifully illustrated books, here is the only volume on the market to offer such a large and gorgeous array of equine art.The book is divided into eight themed chapters that explore the diverse representations of horses in horses depicted as our trusty companions, unstinting workers, and supporters in combat. The book charts this enduring partnership, drawing on the profusion of paintings and sculptures that feature the dignified and intelligent animal that has played so many roles in human history and culture. From the small Nisean horse of the Persian Empire to the tough and speedy mounts of the Wild West, from the winged steed Pegasus to the faithful Black Beauty, humble nags take their place alongside preening thoroughbreds as the many breeds and guises of the horse are depicted.

Genres: Art, Nonfiction, Animals

368 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2000

Reviews

[Caroline · Rating 4 out of 5]

A comprehensive collection of horse pictures, ideal for horse fanatics and people interested in equine art. At my crude count it comprises about 270 pictures in total, which is a lot of pix on one theme - covering a wide range of eras and styles.

They are unfortunately small - the format of the book is only 190 x 140 cm, but even so it's a great pleasure to explore the wide variety of pix on offer. With images this size, you have to come to them, and really concentrate - they aren't big enough simply to come to you. This is a cross between a reference book and a pleasurable art book. It's not really something to wallow in, but it's satisfying. It's great to have such a broad selection of horse pictures all together in one place.

The pix are organised under various headings, like 'Warhorses' or 'Beasts of Burden', which I found useful. The text is interspersed with quotes from various sources, and Harrison's introductions to the different parts of the book are thoughtful. They add interest to the pictures. It was not all cheerful reading though. I was upset to learn that in the past the average working life of a horse, due to hardship, was only three years. There may be less horses around nowadays but it seems like their quality of life is infinitely better.

And here are a few of the pix, just to give a taster of the breadth of the work shown....

British. Cavalry horses with gas masks. 1941.




Young. Red Horse. 1992.




Welsh. Partners. 1997.




Sorolla. Washing the horse. 1909.




Indian painting. Prince on a brown horse. 18th Century.




Hamilton. The Piebald Stallion at the Eisgruber Stud. 18th century.




And finally, one of the book's quotes, suggesting a kind of horsey paradise....

"My horses understand me tolerably well; I converse with them at least four hours every day. They are strangers to bridle or saddle: they live in great amity with me and friendship to each other"

Jonathan Swift

I hope when all these hard-working horses died, they ended up in such a place of bliss.

[H. Gibson · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a horse artist, this is probably one of the most comprehensive collections of horse art in book form. Most of my favourite paintings and sculptures are represented. It is definitely a must have coffee table book.

[Leonie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A must have for all horse art lovers. I missed some more medieval style horses, and it might've been educational to show the progression of the art throughout the centuries and continents rather than the themes.