About this sheet
A refined and highly decorative antique lithograph depicting the Arabian stallion “Sultan Mahmoud,” published in Stuttgart in 1846 as part of August Jäger’s celebrated equestrian publication Das orientalische Pferd (“The Oriental Horse”). Elegant in its simplicity and executed with exceptional lithographic skill, the composition presents the horse in a poised side profile intended to emphasize the noble proportions, refined anatomy, and graceful bearing associated with elite Arabian bloodlines.
The lithograph was issued by the Stuttgart publisher G. Ebner, whose imprint appears in the lower right margin. The notation in the lower left indicates that the print formed part of the first installment of the series. During the mid-19th century, European fascination with Oriental horses reached its height, and richly illustrated works such as Das orientalische Pferd became important references for breeders, cavalry officers, collectors, and admirers of Arabian equestrian culture.
Arabian horses were among the most prized horses of the 18th and 19th centuries, admired for their endurance, intelligence, elegance, and speed. Carefully bred by Bedouin tribes across the Arabian Peninsula, these horses later became foundational bloodlines for many modern breeds, including the Thoroughbred. Their distinctive features — refined heads, arched necks, high tail carriage, and athletic build — made them symbols of prestige throughout Europe.
This particular lithograph possesses a quiet monumentality and timeless elegance. The horse stands alone against a restrained ground with no unnecessary background detail, allowing full attention to focus on the animal itself. The monochrome lithographic technique creates subtle tonal transitions and sculptural modeling, while the precise draftsmanship demonstrates the quality associated with mid-19th-century German lithography.
Today, prints from Das orientalische Pferd are highly appealing both as historical equestrian studies and as sophisticated decorative artworks. The minimalist composition and elegant tonal palette allow this piece to work equally well in traditional interiors and modern curated spaces.
This print displays exceptionally well in dark walnut, black lacquer, or lightly gilt frames paired with a wide ivory or oatmeal mat. Its refined monochrome palette and noble equestrian subject make it particularly suitable for libraries, studies, country houses, horse stables, riding clubs, or sophisticated gallery walls.
This is an original antique print, not a reproduction. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The piece is sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale.
Condition:
Age-related toning, occasional light foxing, and minor wear consistent with age. Overall in good antique condition with attractive tonal quality and strong decorative appeal.
Framing Tips:
This lithograph displays beautifully in dark walnut, ebonized, or black lacquer frames with a wide cream or ivory mat. A lightly gilt frame can also create an elegant traditional equestrian presentation. Ideal for libraries, offices, country interiors, horse stables, or refined sporting collections.
