Inkipedia

Historic Horse Hoof Inkwells from a Famous Racehorse

Categories Presentation Piece, Sports, Stone/Marble/Ivory/Bone/Hoof/Leather
Type Horse Hoof
Material Hoof, Brass
Markings See narrative
Manufacturer Undetermined
Origin England
Date or Era circa 1870
Measuring See narrative

Historic pair of horse hoof inkwells, the hooves of one of the most famous steeplechase racehorses in history! Both hooves belonged to “Bridegroom” who had a very successful career in the Grand National at Aintree finishing 6th in 1860, 4th in 1861 & 2nd in 1862. However, he is much more famous as the winner of the First Grand National Hunt Steeplechase run at Market Harborough in 1860.

Each hoof has been converted to an inkwell with brass mounts & each inkwell lid bears the identical engraving:

“BRIDEGROOM, Winner of the First Grand National Steeple Chase. RUN AT MARKET HARBOROUGH 1860, RIDDEN BY E.C. BURTON ESQRE. 31 RAN”

Included with the hooves is a photo reprint depicting “Bridegroom” with the caption “SECOND IN THE GRAND NATIONAL 1862”. Also shown here is a printout of the Wikipedia page relating to the 1862 Grand National confirming Bridegroom as runner-up. Additionally, there is a printout from the website “www.greyhoundderby.com” run by John Slusar which provides a comprehensive history of horse racing & racecourses worldwide (many sadly, now defunct).

The printout relates to the Market Harborough Racecourse and gives details of the 1860 race won by Bridegroom. The race is described as “deemed to be the most important steeplechase ever held in the United Kingdom”. The Grand National Hunt Steeplechase, run on Wednesday 18th April1860, was the race which resulted in the establishment of the National Hunt Committee, the group which went on to run the sport.

The National Hunt Chase Challenge Cup, a Grade 2 steeplechase for novice chasers over 3 miles 5 furlongs and 201 yards, is staged annually at the Cheltenham Festival in March. It boasts a rich history and is the oldest race in the Cheltenham Festival program, dating from 1860. In the early days, between its inception in 1860 & 1910, it was staged at a variety of courses, but in 1911 Cheltenham became its permanent home.

The inaugural run was at Market Harborough in 1860 when the 8-year-old Bridegroom, ridden by Edmund Burton, was victorious, winning as the 5/1 favorite (see photos for complete result).

Hoof Inkwell Number One: Weight: 686.0 gm. Height: 80 mm (3.15”). Width: 120 mm (4.33”). Length: 145 mm (5.71”).

Hoof Inkwell Number Two: Weight: 745.9 gm. Height: 80 mm (3.15”). Width: 110 mm (4.33”). Length: 145 (5.71”) mm.

This is a rare pair of taxidermy hoof inkwells from one of the most famous horses in the history of steeple chasing. They are of museum quality.

 

Estimated value: $1500

Content disclaimer. The information posted is the owner’s best knowledge and may not have been vetted by the SOIC. We welcome comments, corrections, and additions, working to make our website information comprehensive and accurate.

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