 The Lipizzan, or Lipizzaner, has its origins in the early 1500's; it is a mixture of Arabian and Spanish horse bloodlines. The name comes from Lipizza, near the Adriatic Sea, where one strain of the Lipizzan was first bred. This horse has been prominent throughout its history as a carriage horse, and has particularly been favoured by royalty in many countries. Through interbreeding with other types of horses, particularly Arabians, the Lipizzan has developed into a strong breed with many variations, noteably the Conversano, Favory, Maestoso, Neapolitano, Pluto, and Siglavy.White or light grey is the usual colour of the Lipizzan today. Since white horses were preferred by royal families, the colour was stressed in breeding. Today non-white Lipizzans are rare, and only occasionally is a black or bay found. The Lipizzan can be recognized also by its sturdy body, excellent movement, and proud carriage. It is a short horse, and is intelligent and docile. Born dark, Lipizzans turn white after they are about six years old. The influence of Arabian blood can be seen in the head, the small alert ears and the nose. The tail is carried high and is thick and long, like the mane. The Spanish Riding School in Vienna, Austria, has for hundreds of years attempted to perpetuate the art of classical horsemanship. This has included the training of young riders and horses in dressage. The school has also had the goal of maintaining the Lipizzan breed, and has become recognized world-wide as the home of the Lipizzan horse. |