Barb horse
 | This article needs additional citations for verification. (September 2011) |
 Berber warriors mounted on Barbs | |
| Country of origin | North Africa |
|---|---|
The Barb or Berber horse (
History
When imported to Europe, the Barbs were sometimes mistaken for Arabians, although they have distinctly different physical characteristics. The Europeans saw that their size was similar and their handlers were Berber
The Barb is now bred primarily in
Influence on other breeds
The Barb may have had more influence on the racing breeds throughout the world than any other horse except the
Historical references to "Barbary" horses include Roan Barbary, owned by King
Despite its importance as a progenitor of other breeds, the Barb is less renowned than the Arab, possibly because it was considered a less attractive-looking breed. In other important qualities, the Barb has the same stamina and endurance, the same ability to thrive on meager rations, and the same sure-footedness and speed over short distances. The Barb also was valued for its "strong, short-coupled body, perfect for collection— the posture that makes weight-bearing easiest for the horse—its eagerness to learn and its gentle nature."[3] Because of these characteristics, beginning in the 16th century, the horses were also trained for dressage, in Paris and other European capitals. Sixteenth-century and later portraits of royalty on horses frequently portrayed the latter in dressage positions.[3]
See also
- Andalusian horse
- Arabian horse
- Equine coat color genetics
- Horses in Morocco
- Spanish-Norman horse
- Spanish Barb
References
- ISBN 0932748007.
- ^ "The Moroccan Barb Horse in the spotlight". Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2014 in Normandy. 14 April 2014. Archived from the original on 25 June 2021. Retrieved 28 November 2023.
- ^ Saudi Aramco World. Vol. 58, no. 1. Archived from the originalon 6 June 2007. Retrieved 23 February 2011.
- ^ Nissen, p. 41.
External links
