Toy Horse Appraisal

Vintage Wooden Rocking Horse and Pull-Along Horse Toy Set

This set features two horse-themed toys, likely vintage, displayed atop a wooden cabinet. The larger item appears to be a wooden rocking horse, distinctively styled with a light gray or whitewashed finish, showing significant wear, particularly around the edges and raised areas, suggesting a painted surface that has chipped and faded over time. It features a simplified, somewhat stylized horse form with a raised head and mane. A dark, possibly red or maroon, saddle-like fabric or painted detail is visible on its back. The construction appears to be solid wood, with visible joints and possibly peg-like connections, indicative of traditional toy craftsmanship. Its 'rocking' mechanism is not fully visible, but the shape suggests it might have once had curved rockers, though it is currently resting on flat supports. The smaller item is a pull-along toy horse, also appearing to be made of wood, painted with an off-white base and distinct brown or tan spots, mimicking a pinto or dappled coat. It stands on all four legs, which are attached to a wooden platform with small, multi-colored wooden wheels (green at the front, red/brown at the back) and wooden axles. The paint on this smaller horse also shows signs of age and light wear, consistent with a well-loved toy. Both horses exhibit a folk-art or simplified aesthetic, common in toys from the mid-20th century. The absence of specific maker's marks or dates makes precise dating challenging without further inspection, but their construction, materials, and visible patina suggest an age of several decades. The larger rocking horse seems to be a display piece now, possibly missing its full rocking base, while the smaller pull-along horse retains its functional wheels, though it also appears to be a decorative item in this context. The overall condition suggests a history of use, contributing to their aged charm and antique appeal.