Royal Horse and Rider: Painting, Sculpture, and Horsemanship 1500-1800

Rating:
Summary: Scholarly, Thoughtful, and Horse-Wise
Review: I used this book as my primary source for my bachelor's thesis project. It is by far the most through and intellectual book of Renaissance and Baroque equestrian art which I have read. Liedke is an educated, high-level horseman with a real understanding of the finer considerations of the art of horsemanship. Included is commentary of the birth of dressage and the "Classical" riding style, relative art historical comparisons between works, topical commentary on other pubications, and many beautiful plates of some of the most famous monuments extant, viewed from the unique perspective of the horseman. I also recommend Laura Camins' "Glorious Horsemen," although dressage enthusiasts will take issue with many of her statements.

Rating:
Summary: Scholarly, Thoughtful, and Horse-Wise
Review: I used this book as my primary source for my bachelor's thesis project. It is by far the most through and intellectual book of Renaissance and Baroque equestrian art which I have read. Liedke is an educated, high-level horseman with a real understanding of the finer considerations of the art of horsemanship. Included is commentary of the birth of dressage and the "Classical" riding style, relative art historical comparisons between works, topical commentary on other pubications, and many beautiful plates of some of the most famous monuments extant, viewed from the unique perspective of the horseman. I also recommend Laura Camins' "Glorious Horsemen," although dressage enthusiasts will take issue with many of her statements.