Lot 1442 D α

The most famous depiction of a rearing horse in the history of art is undoubtedly that created by Leonardo da Vinci for the equestrian statue of Francesco Sforza in the late 15th century. Leonardo knew very well that the qualities of the horse were of vital importance in emphasising the significance of the rider, and it was for that reason that he carried out detailed anatomical studies of the animals in the ducal stables, making numerous preparatory drawings and using as models some horses already famous for their beauty. This later model of a horse could also have been based on a precise anatomical study, because, among other features, it displays prominent pelvic bones, which suggest that it was made as a portrait.