THE GALLOP. 
159 
1 2 3 4 5 678 9 
SILHOUETTES SELECTED FROM THE RESULTS OF THE PALO ALTO INVESTIGATION, 1872—79, ALL OF WHICH RESEMBLE PHASES THAT HAVE BEEN, AT VARIOUS 
TIMES, ADOPTED BY ARTISTS AS THEIR INTERPRETATION OF THE GALLOP OF THE HORSE. 
A history of the artistic delineation of the gallop is 
worthy of attention ; it is hoped, one will some day be 
written, and comprehensively illustrated. 
Pending its appearance, it is impossible, in this volume, 
to do more than casually refer to the expressions given 
to this method of locomotion by the artists of a few 
nations, at different epochs, as represented by the horse ; 
and in general terms to consider their predominant 
characteristics. 
With this object only in view it will be sufficient 
to arrange the prevailing traits of its treatment in three 
broad classifications. 
First, the Primitive ; suggested to the artist by keen 
observation, and expressed by him with entire freedom 
from conventionality. 
The distinguishing features of this type are the flexure 
of all the legs more or less under the body, with one 
or both the hind feet free from contact with the around 
o * 
Examples from nature, the impression of which 
influenced, as it continues to influence, the untaught and 
the unconventional artist, may be found in figures i and 2 
of the line of silhouettes ; phases 5, 6, and 7, series 46 ; 
and 1 to 4, series 52. 
Second, the Ancient. In which the support is 
rendered by the two hind feet, the anterior legs are 
more or less flexed, with their feet in close proximity, 
and raised at various elevations above the ground. 
Figures 3 and 5 of the silhouettes ; phase 6, series 64 ; 
and 2 of series 66, resemble this interpretation. 
Third, the Modern. Which, so far as it is used in 
depicting a regular progressive motion of the horse, 
exhibits an entire absence of careful observation, unpre¬ 
judiced impression, or serious reasoning. 
In its most pronounced realization it is characterized 
by a body, neck, and head, all of abnormal length, and 
arranged in a nearly horizontal line. The anterior legs, 
in almost parallel lines, have their feet a few inches below, 
and in advance of, the nose. Both hind feet are thrust 
far to the rear, with their shoes turned upwards. 
There is no phase in the motion of a horse photo¬ 
graphed from life that can be referred to as an example 
of this curious treatment of the gallop, nor will any 
