λ  AN EARLY VICTORIAN GILT BRASS RELIEF PLAQUE OF 'BLACK EAGLE'

λ AN EARLY VICTORIAN GILT BRASS RELIEF PLAQUE OF 'BLACK EAGLE'

C.1850

depicting the prancing circus horse, with a scrolling leaf and rosette panel, inscribed 'Black Eagle', in a moulded rosewood glazed frame

60.5 x 79.4cm

Catalogue Note

Black Eagle was a famous American trick horse owned by the circus proprietors, John and George Sanger. He was highly trained and danced to music. In 1858 he appeared in front of Queen Victoria performing the waltz and polka, imitating a camel and standing on his hind legs.