ba-rouque (be-rok') adj. [Fr. < Ital. barocco.] 1. Of, relating to, or characteristic of an artistic and architectural style developed in Europe from about 1550 to 1700 and typified by elaborate ornamentation, as scrolls and curves. 3. Ornate or flamboyent in style

barouque horse Baroque horses trace their ancestry to 15th Century, Rennaisance period. Bred for warfare, these horses needed a hearty constitution, good temperaments, and the ability to collect to perform complex movements that carried Knights into battle. These are known today as "the airs above the ground". These ancient breeds which include Andalusions, Friesians, and Lippizan horses, were highly valued by royalty and praised throughout the ancient world .

We are an e-store specializing in the decorative, elaborate, or historical costume for the horse, gifts and items for Baroque horse lovers, historical re-creators, or anyone who wants to create a little magic with their horse!

Established 2002

San Francisco Bay Area, California, USA

The first horse most of us ever rode, was a Carousel Horse. How fun it was to run around the platform, looking for the most ornate, elaborately costumed horse!

Up until the 19th Century, Horses reflected pride, status and wealth in their trappings. Festivals and events such as Jousting matches were not only a way to practise skills and demonstrate equestrian prowess, but a means of thrilling crowds of on-lookers as well. This culminated to the ultimate in paegentry with Empress Maria Theresa of Austria. In what is now known as the Spanish school of riding, Maria Theresa (1717-80) held mounted carousels that became legendary. The most resplendant of which was organised for high-born wives of princes and cavaliers. These women of the court dressed in elaborate costumes, and performed mounted and carriage quadrilles for an audience of nobility. For participating in this event, the ladies would recieve gifts of jewels as souvenirs.

For some, the ancient world of pagentry and elegance is sadley missing in today's modern world. A respect for classical riding combined with loveing admiration and appreciation for the equine, has led me on a quest to re-capture the magic of days gone by. I found that there was little available in the way of "historical costume" for the horse. My personal search, turned into a passion, and hence "The Baroque Equestrian" was born. Every-time I find something interesting, I will try to bring it to the e-store to share with you.

London A. Wilde

If you are an artisan or craft-person with a product you think should be in our e-shop, please email us!