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 orginally named Figure, but is better known as Justin Morgan -- the name of his second owner. The origins of this amazing horse are obscure. However, he was truly one of the world's most remakable 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 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 was matched in demanding weight-pulling contests ... and was raced under saddle and harness -- never to be beaten! The qualities of this one amazing horse were carried on in his offspring establishing one of America's most popular breeds of horses. Image Size: 8.25 x 11.75 in. Overall Size: 13.5 x 16.5 in. Unframed. (B09719)