Peter Barrett (British, B. 1935) "Morgan 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 Morgan Horse stamp issued September 25, 1985. Unlike most American horses which have developed from the crossing of breeds, the Morgan Horse is descended from a single sire of incredible strength and merit. This horse was originally named Figure, but is perhaps better known as Justin Morgan -- the name of his second owner who received the horse as payment for a debt around 1795. The origins of this amazing horse are obscure, and will probably never be known. Some claim that the original Morgan Horse was the offspring of a famous Thoroughbred racer and a Wildair mare. Others claim he was descendant of a Welsh Cob with a mixture of Thoroughbred blood. Whatever his origins, the truth is that he was truly one of the world's most remarkable horses. Although he was renowned for his strength and endurance, Justin Morgan's horse was relatively small, standing only a little more than 4-1/2 feet tall and weighing around eight hundred pounds. Used by his owner to pull the plough to plant crops, clear fields and pull heavy loads, this one small horse literally worked from sunrise until dusk. When not working in the fields, Justin Morgan matched his incredible horse in weight-pulling contests so demanding that it was a miracle a horse his size could move such heavy loads. In addition, Justin Morgan's horse was raced under saddle and harness -- never to be beaten. The qualities of this one amazing horse were carried on in his offspring which resulted in the establishment of a new breed. Image Size: 12 x 10 in. Overall Size: 18.5 x 16.25 in. Unframed. (B09724)