subject: Why the Wooden Rocking Horse Is Far More Than Just a Toy [print this page] Why the Wooden Rocking Horse Is Far More Than Just a Toy
The wooden rocking horse has been a huge part of many children's childhoods for centuries. Although many other toys have come and gone throughout the years, rocking horses have remained popular. They attract children of all ages and are perfect for simple yet effective role playing games. Playtime is essential for all children, and allowing them to use their imaginations is a great building block in their lives.
Although they are considered to be a child's toy, many adults love the way they look, and some have even become collector's items. Horses have always played a huge part in history, and are admired by everyone. They have been used to transport goods, to allow knights to go into war, and for recreational pleasure time. Toy horses have been played with for hundreds of years, and were originally placed on wheels to allow children to joust with them. However, wooden rocking horses became very popular and by the 17th century the design and style was being adapted.
The original design was very simple, and the rocking horses were placed on the rockers from cradles. The designs were very varied with some being very crude and basic, and others being elegant and spectacular. They were often made by carpenters in the early days, and the ornamental ones were the toys of royalty. A wooden rocking horse would be seen in many nurseries in upper class houses, and homes of the rich. A great deal of time and money was invested into the more expensive rocking horses. They would often have flowing manes, with actual leather saddles and bridles, the details and artwork was incredible.
The most popular color of the wooden rocking horse was dapple grey; this was believed to be because Queen Victoria chose this color for her own rocking horse. In the late 19th century the popularity of these toys had risen so much that the production was moved to factories. Although many of the wooden rocking horses made today are generic; there are, however, still some old fashioned rocking horse makers available. Personalized and expectedly detailed, handcrafted rocking horses are the ideal gift for any small child.
However, the materials that are used today are often plastic or stuffed fabric horses. The designs and styles of the rocking horses has developed and adapted. The colors have varied and there are even themed ones available. Cowboy horses are very popular, and although different from the original design, they are still a rocking horse at heart. These modern alternatives are very popular, and far cheaper than the traditional wooden designs.
However, even in the world we live in today with all of the modern technology, if a child sees a rocking horse they are immediately drawn to it. They make ideal gifts for children, and big kids who still have a passion for the beautiful craftsmanship that goes into every wooden rocking horse. They can often be found online, or in antique shops. Very old authentic rocking horses are expensive, but it is fantastic to have a piece of history, that can be enjoyed as well as admired.
