Large 19th Century English Antique Cast Iron Horse - Equestrian Overmantel Decoration

A large 19th-century English antique cast iron horse, modelled in bold relief with arched neck, muscular form, and stylised mane. Likely designed as an equestrian overmantel decoration or architectural fragment, this sculptural piece reflects Victorian admiration for rural life, strength, and symbolic ornamentation.

The iron retains a dry, aged ebonised patina with traces of its original gilding, some oxidation and surface wear. Its silhouette is both expressive and compact, making it ideal for display above a fireplace, integration into bespoke interiors, or use in restoration projects.

A rare and evocative survival of English decorative ironwork — perfect for collectors of equestrian antiques, architectural salvage, or Victorian sculpture.

Provenance: England. 19th century. An almost identical example is held in the collection of Compton Verney.

Compton Verney is a renowned art gallery and cultural destination located in a Grade I-listed Georgian mansion set within 120 acres of Capability Brown-designed parkland in Warwickshire, England. It offers a unique blend of art, nature, and creativity, making it one of the UK’s most distinctive museum experiences

Compton Verney houses six world-class collections:

• British Folk Art: The largest collection of British Folk Art in the UK, showcasing everyday creativity from rural and working-class communities.

• Chinese Ritual Bronzes: One of Europe’s top three collections of archaic Chinese bronzes, spanning from the Shang Dynasty (c.1500 BCE) to the Tang Dynasty (618–906 CE).

• Neapolitan Art (1600–1800) A rare and celebrated collection of Baroque painting, considered the finest outside Naples.

• Northern European Art (1450–1650): includes late Medieval and Renaissance sculpture and painting from Germany, the Low Countries, and beyond.

• British Portraits and Miniatures: A small but fine collection of historic British portraiture, including works by Isaac Oliver and Marcus Gheeraerts the Younger.

• Marx-Lambert Collection: A bequest from textile designer Enid Marx and historian Margaret Lambert, featuring folk objects, toys, and printed textiles.

Condition: The piece has gained the most wonderful patina. Please refer to the images.

Dimensions: 

Height: 25 cm ≈ 9.84 inches

Width: 29.5 cm ≈ 11.61 inches

• +Depth: 9 cm ≈ 3.54 inches