Lot 106. A Neapolitan polychrome-decorated wood model of a pacing horse, 18th century;21 ½ in. (54.5 cm.) high; 20 ½ in. (52 cm.) wide; 6 ¾ in. (17 cm. ) deep. Estimate GBP 3,000 - GBP 5,000 (USD 3,819 - USD 6,365). © Christie's Images Ltd 2019.

Mounted on an ebonised rectangular plinth. 

Note: This beautifully carved equestrian model of a pacing horse recalls the Neapolitan terracotta creche models by such sculptors as Nicola Vassallo and Lorenzo Mosca. 

In the Metropolitan Museum in New York (inv. no. 64.164.107) is a similar mid to late eighteenth century chestnut horse; however, the more stylised appearance of this sculpture indicates a date in the early part of the 18th century.

Brown Horse, Italian, Naples, second half 18th century. Polychromed terracotta body; wooden legs and tail; velvet covered wooden saddle; satin saddle blanket fringed with metallic thread; gold threaded girth with gilt buckles; silver martingale; gold braided mane and reins; silver braided bridle and silver stirrups, H. 17 1/4 in. (43.8 cm.) Gift of Loretta Hines Howard, 1964, 64.164.107a–d. © 2000–2018 The Metropolitan Museum of Art.