12 



BULLETIN 4S7, V. S. DKl'AKTM EXT OF AOHICTLTUBE. 



these estimated weights corrected by comparison with the weight as 

 shown upon accurate scales. 



Form. — A broad, massive, low-set form will bring the center of 

 gravity near the base of support and thus make the equilibrium of 

 the horse more stable. The general form is due to the legs as well 

 as the body, so the body and legs should be well proportioned. To 

 take in the form well the students should note the horse carefully 

 from the front, the rear, and both sides at some distance. (Fig. 7.) 



Fig. C. — Student estimating the height of a horse. 



Quality. — Quality is a rather comprehensive term, difficult to de- 

 fine, although it is understood by all judges of live stock. It has ref- 

 erence to evidence of refinement as opposed to coarseness. There is 

 a correlation between the exterior of a horse and its internal anatomy. 

 A pliable skin, with soft silky hair is evidence of health and the 

 normal functioning of internal organs. Such skin and hair is asso- 

 ciated with well-defined tendons; smooth, well-developed, muscles; 

 strong, smooth bone; clean, well-defined joints; and dense, sound 

 hoofs. Quality is often associated with style, spirit, and speed. 



