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Rocking horses have been a part of children's toy collections for hundreds of years. Often, they become heirlooms that are passed on from generation to generation. Hobby horses were made in Persia and Greece as early as 400 BC. In the 1300's, horses with wheels were manufactured for kids in order for them to re-enact jousting games. During the nineteenth century pull-along horses made their debut in Europe, England and America.
The earliest known rocking horses were patterned after cradles. One of the earliest known rocking horses belonged to King Charles I. It was a half moon shape with a log body, boarded sides and an extremely simple head. Over the next several centuries, the rocking horse was refined and made to look more sophisticated. They began painting and ornately carving them.
During the eighteenth century, the now popular horse on bow rockers was developed in England. The wealthy used them to help children develop their balance when riding real horses.
In the late eighteenth century, spotted rocking horses started to appear. By the early nineteenth century, the horses were mostly white with black spots. Grey horses with black dappling didn't appear until sometime later. A plaster like material, known as gesso or whitening, was used to cover the horses. This was much easier to work with than the wood. The gesso left a soft surface for painting. However, since several coats needed to be applied and it took nearly 10 hours for the gesso to dry, it was a very long process.
Philip Marqua introduced the safety stand in England during the late 1800's. The original patent for the safety stand was not renewed, therefore allowing anyone to make them. During the early twentieth century, safety stand horses surpassed bow rockers in popularity. The main reason for this was because they were more compact and required less space. The horse was shorter and easier for children to control.
The most popular antique rocking horse was crafted by F.H. Ayres, whose headquarters were in London. They designed both safety stand and bow horses and were sold in shops such as Selfridges and Harrods. They would place the names of the stores on the base of the stand. Some of the other popular makes include G&J Lines, Collinson and Leeway, J&G Lines and Lines Bros. Wilson.
Modern technology brought about the natural wood horses. Modern technology made wood easier to work with and less time consuming. However, tools are now available to rub down intricate shapes, making it a lot easier. Therefore, beautiful polished finishes are easily created.
Rocking horses are one toy that has withstood the test of time. What originally started out as a toy that only the wealthy could afford, quickly became a popular toy with everyone. As generation after generation passes them along, they are sure to be around for many years to come.