Peter Barrett (British, B. 1935) "Saddlebred Horse" Signed lower left. Original Watercolor painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the U.S. 22c Saddlebred Horse stamp issued September 25, 1985. Generations ago, wealthy Kentucky planters often spent long days in the saddle overseeing their fields. Because they spent so much time on horseback, they desired a horse that had a comfortable and smooth gait ... yet was handsome in appearance. To develop such a breed, the Kentucky planters crossed a famed Thoroughbred sire named Denmark with mares of other breeds including the Morgan, the early Narragansett and the Canadian Pacer. The offspring eventually developed into a beautiful new breed of horse characterized by proudly arched necks, rounded compact bodies, and a spirited high stepping trot. But this new breed's greatest fame came from its incredibly smooth and comfort able ride -- which earned the horse the name the Kentucky Saddler, or American Saddlebred. The Saddlebred's smooth gait won it favor throughout the South as a gentle saddle and harness horse. Eventually the Saddlebred's fame grew throughout the country, and it became one of America's most popular horses. Today, the Saddlebred is America's supreme show horse. In the show ring Saddlebreds are paraded about with their necks proudly arched and tails held high. The horses are judged on their walk, animated trots and spirited canters. This gentle-gaited breed is loved as an all-around saddle horse with a most pleasurable and comfortable ride. Image Size: 12 x 10 in. Overall Size: 18.5 x 16.25 in. Unframed. (B09725) See More