Well, where do I start! This is such a special little horse. An early FH Ayres, with that lovely, distinctive, sloping bottom! I believe she dates to approximately 1885 making her almost 140 years old!
 
Connie is what I would class as a medium size, being 42" (107cm) to her highest point.
Her stand is 51" (130cm) in length x 22.5" (57cm) wide. Her body length measures 25"
 
She came to me overpainted with no hair, no eyes and an interesting "sausage" nose. So many, many hours have been spent, peeling back the layers, re-carving her muzzle and ears and restoring her to how I believe she would have looked originally.
 
She had been referred to simply as "Pony" for many years, but I chose the name Constance for her, meaning "steadfastness." Though French in origin, Constance is rooted in the Latin constantem, meaning "resolute" or "faithful." It's a name that embraces dedication and perseverance no matter the obstacles faced. Which I could tell she had endured many! Two world wars for starters!
 
I was very lucky that the previous owner sent a little tub of goodies with her. This included lots of her original decorative nails, which had remnants of her rosettes and saddle cloth attached. A beautiful turquoise that I would never have guessed at. I have managed to replicate them using handmade 100% wool felt for her saddle cloth and recycled sari silk for her rosettes.
 
There were also small patches of original paint which I decided to retain and leave visible. Although it wasn't much, it was enough to get a nice colour match and give me the perfect outline for her saddlecloth.
 
Her stand is mostly original, with just the base board and feet being earlier replacements, which I have retained.
 
I'm happy to share the photos and videos of her restoration on request.
 
It has been a real journey with this one, and I have really grown very fond of her. I hope she finds a respectful home as she has so much history attached to her.
 
Please get in touch if you would like to view her or would like and more information. I'm happy to do live video calls if you can't make it in person.
 
Worldwide shipping may be possible, but please get in touch for a quote.