Rocking Horse Elite

Description

OATS: Several of these horses have crossed our path and so were obviously made in some number. Would this be the elusive Kain rocking horse?
Feel free to call to discuss 01245 320228
or
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Interestingly enough a painting came up for auction {which features in the animation sequence of Barley's illustration}, with the following provenance:

James Ward (1769-1859) "The Rocking Horse" Oil on canvas Bears paper label verso indistinctly inscribed 51.5cm x 66cm Provenance: Maggs Bros. 109 Strand London WC Catalogue No. 323 1914 plate XXVII It had been understood by the present vendor that the children depicted were members of the Spencer family but this cannot be substantiated with evidence.

Both Oats and Barley have the same distinct elbow-knee-hoof ratio along with the straight line from hock to hoof tip on the rear legs. The distinctive 'battleship grey, fleck' coat pattern which is depicted in the painting strongly suggests this may be the same make of horse but this is impossible to prove conclusively of course. This also supports the speculative dates of manufacture.
Examples of this horse can be found in both Museums of Childhood in London and Edinburgh,{ U.K.}
This solid bodied, VERY early rocking horse on Bow is naively carved with outstretched head has a quaint charm of its own. Eyes are large and carved in wood and the ears small. The bow, unfortunately was far too damaged to be saved, the turned spacers being the only remaining original pieces of it left. However, a pattern of the bow itself it is on file and available for reference.
He has lost most of his Gesso and has a thin metal plate on his neck seemingly doing absolutely nothing.The top section of his head is completely detached due to a severe timber shake but the join comes together tight and accurate. He is remarkably sound given his age with the legs extremely firm to the body. He just needs to be taken forward in his restoration to return him to his former glory.

Certainly a collectors piece of rarity and charm.