Rocking Horse - 19th century

Description:

Rocking Horse History

Medieval manuscripts refer to carved rocking horses. As early as the 17th century, some horses were made of flat boards rather than full-bodied carved horses. "These profile horses weren't really functional and were often smaller than the kind children rode on later," Dean Failey, of Christie's in New York says.

Early in the 19th century, woodworkers, most from New England, started making more sculptural horses. "These were hand-made," says Dean. "It was Dad in the woodshop cranking out the first ones. By the mid-19th century there was a good number of them." These creations were commonly fitted with horsehair manes and tails to bring them to life. While almost always made of wood, some were padded and others had leather or cloth saddles and reins, features that have often been lost to time.

But with the industrialization that followed the American Civil War, there came a change in the way rocking horses were made. "After that, rocking horses were primarily mass-produced," Dean says.

Description:

This particular rocking horse is special in that the saddle and some of its fine hand-painted detail has survived. Dean says: "Most often, serious collectors seek out manufactured rocking horses of the late 19th century because they tend to come with desired accessories and have fine hand-painted details."

This Rocking Horse is consistant with those made by The Whitney Reed Corporation of Leominster, MA. Rocking Horse. as they were known for their American center swing horse.

Description: What a wonderful child's toy. This Victorian rocking horse is in phenomenal condition considering its age and use. This toy is an early example of Whitney Reed Chair Co. of Leominster, Mass. The wooden horse is finely carved with an expressive face and graceful leaping legs. Note some of its desirable features are the original hand wrought iron bridle and leather reigns, and hand wrought horseshoes on the back feet. The horse easily rocks and glides on its original iron and wooden frame. Check out the original fancy stenciling and paint on the base. There has been no touch ups on the paint, which is impressive. Obviously this Victorian child's toy was treasured by its original owner.