(back cover) <br>Award-winning horse photographer Astrid Harrisson and equestrian expert Tamsin Pickeral spent a year combing the world in search of the best examples of more than eighty diverse horse breeds. This book is the result of their ambitious project: a fascinating read accompanied by sensitive and striking photography. Discover the vital role that the magnificent horse has played throughout history, from plow horse to racehorse. Trace the development of the most striking and significant breeds, and learn intriguing tales about breeds that are now almost forgotten. Sumptuously illustrated throughout, this unique book was written and produced for everyone who loves horses.<br><br>(front flap) <br>Written as a glorious celebration of this noblest of animals, <i>The Majesty of the Horse</i>explores the sheer beauty and grandeur of horses, revealing the central role they have played in human societies throughout the world and across the ages. The book also showcases equine photographer Astrid Harrisson's amazing portraiture and stunning images of horses in motion, with pictures that capture the essence of many different breeds. This lavish book pays homage not only to the physical splendor of the horse--its grace, strength, and extraordinary adaptability --but also to the animal's remarkable diversity. Equestrian specialist Tamsin Pickeral traces the evolution of the most significant and fascinating breeds, among them, the tiny, fiery Caspian, a native of the Caspian Sea's south shore; the proud Thoroughbred; the genetically pure Icelandic Pony; the heroic Shire horse; and many others. <br>For millennia, horses have enabled humankind to work the land effectively, travel across vast territories, go to war, and ride for sport and pleasure. Open this richly illustrated book and you'll discover the stories behind more than eighty breeds, including the world's oldest known horse breeds, workhorses bred for specific tasks, horses bred for specific sports, and still other horses bred to suit specific environments. With evocative text and photos of exceptional quality,<i>The Majesty of the Horse </i>is an essential volume for everyone who loves horses.<br><br>(back flap) <br><b>Tasmin Pickeral, </b>horse expert and art historian, grew up surrounded by horses in the English countryside, where she developed a continuing passion for these magnificent animals, their history, and their relationship with human beings. She has lived both in Europe and North America, working with horses, tending to their care, health, and management. A widely published author, she has written several books on animal themes.<br><br><b>Astrid Harrisson </b>has many years of experience working as a graphic designer, photographer, and creative director. She began photographing horses in 2008 while working on a ranch in Argentina, and has since traveled widely in Europe, the Americas, India, Africa, China, and Australia, capturing award-winning photos of equine subjects.<br><br><br><br><br><br>