Marble Horse on Plinth

28"x7"x18"

This elegant, stylized horse sculpture sits on a plinth and is made with smooth Italian marble. The horse wears a bridle, or a type of headgear used to control the animal, which consists of buckles and straps around the horse’s mouth where the reins would be attached. The horse has its head down, with its bulbous, deep-cut eyes looking straight ahead. The animal exudes vitality and energy through flaring nostrils and strong muscles. The mane, which is delicately carved, runs from the ears and all down the neck. The curving cheeks pay homage to the ancient Greek Corinthian style of sculpture. Carrara marble might have been used to make this sculpture – a form of Italian marble that was considered to be superior due to its durability and purity. Although the artist is unidentified, their craftsmanship shines through with the delicate rendering of the reins, mane, eyes, and ears. This beautiful marble sculpture resembles something made in the ancient Greek and Roman period, so if you have ever dreamed of owning such an object, now is your chance. This item would look divine in an office or reading room, or as a centerpiece on a table.

At this time in Italy, the Lunigiana revolt took place in January 1894 in the stone and marble quarries of Massa and Carrara  – two communes that form part of the region of Tuscany, Italy. By the 19th century, workers in the marble quarries were among the most neglected labourers in the country. Physical work in the quarries was extremely taxing, and labourers were prepared to revolt with the aim of improving working conditions and wages. Although the Lunigiana revolt was short lived, anarchism rose to greater prominence in Italy as a result.