Lancaster Dapple Grey Rocking Horse after F.H. Ayres

The finest original Victorian rocking horses stood out from the crowd of the many poorly designed and crudely made examples by dint of their unmistakable poise and stature. We capture these qualities by faithfully adhering to the proportions of the original patterns and re-creating their distinctive posture. This applies particularly to the heads, which attract so many of our customers.

The head of this - our most favoured style of Lancaster - is inspired by F.H. Ayres. Like the best Ayres horses, the heads are detailed and friendly. Like the cream of their Victorian forebears, the head is slightly turned in a diffident but dignified manner.

Equally important is the finish: the Lancaster is entrusted to an expert in the reproduction of the antique patina. A painstaking and lengthy process, which involves special techniques and artists' materials applied entirely by hand, simulates the appearance of the tiny number of Victorian originals which have survived with paintwork intact.

This creates subtle paintwork with tonal variation and depth and an understated dappling to compliment the character of the horse.  Our customers particularly like the fact that there is great attention to detail in the painting and that it is not just one uniform colour.  Rather, it is skilfully built-up in layers.

The above photo illustrates the typical finished appearance, which includes a beautifully upholstered saddle in deluxe leather of a type used for fine Chesterfield sofas.  This is durable and robust and of the finest quality.  You will note the tonal staining of the leather to enhance the appearance further. 

The result is a very special rocking horse offered in two sizes. The large plus size, pictured above, is suitable for rising by children of all ages, including those well over the age of 21!!

Some Features of all Lancaster Horses

Lovely, detailed and friendly faces
Slightly turned heads in the style of the very finest 19th Century British rocking horses
Crack-resistant construction ensures long life
Wonderfully detailed paint finish gives gorgeous finish which simulates natural ageing
Unique system gives extra long life to mane and tail and minimal moulting
De-luxe saddle and saddle blanket made from top quality, durable Chesterfield leather
Leather has subtle tonal variations and is available in choice of colours
Also available on bow rockers for even more 'period' charm

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