This fireback's curvaceous frame and rope moulding lend it a distinctive originality. Under a
crescent moon, a cantering horse is pictured by a water hole as it eclipses the stars of the
constellation Pegasus. In Greek mythology Pegasus, the winged horse, was the offspring of Neptune and Medusa, created at
his father's command from a mixture of sea foam and the blood that fell when Perseus severed
Medusa's head.
The thigh of the horse covers the star Markab, the bottom right star of the large square of stars
which is most recognizable feature of the constellation Pegasus. Markab is still represented on
this fireback as a reflection in the water with it's neighboring star Algenib.
The canter is a moderate running pace of a horse, a brisk but easy movement. To win in a canter,
in horse-racing, is to distance all the other horses so much that urging toward the end of the
race is unnecessary.
Cast Iron, Made by hand in the USA
21 1/2" wide, 18" high, 41 pounds
First introduced in 1998
Outlined with a rope border