[Vorstellung der Pferde, nach ihren Hauptfarben und derselben verschiedenen Abtheilungen, Complexion, und der daraus entspringenden Beschaffenheit]

Augsburg, 1770. 4to. (10 1/4 x 8 inches). Hand-coloured engraved pictorial title, 39 pp. of drop-head title and text in German and French printed in double-column, with 50 finely hand-coloured engraved plates. Bound in contemporary half calf and speckled paper boards. Spine with raised bands in five compartments, tooled in gilt. Within dark blue full morocco box

An important and rare work on horse colours and shade variations by the great equestrian artist Johann Elias Ridinger, published posthumously by his sons, Martin E. and J. J. Ridinger.

The present work is one of only two of Ridinger's works issued coloured. It includes a series of engravings, which showcase horses of different breeds and types, each categorised according to its primary coat colour. The engravings are highly detailed and provide opportunities for scholars and enthusiasts alike to study and appreciate the various equine colours and markings. Like much of Ridinger's work, 'Vorstellung der Pferde' represents a fusion of art and accurate observations of hunting animals. Rindinger's rococo influence comes through in the elaborate engraved title, the theatricality which is reflected in the dynamic poses of the equine figures, many of which are depicted standing on steep slopes or against the background of dramatically curved branches. Ridinger started his training in Ulm, Germany where he studied under the painter Christoph Resch (fl. 1710). He later studied under Johann Falch (1687-1727) in Augsburg and learned the art of engraving from the military genre painter and engraver Georg Philipp Rugendas (1666-1742). Ridinger spent three years in Regensburg, during which time his visits to the riding school there proved influential for his development as an artist. His father, who modelled small equestrian and animal figures in his spare time, might have also spurred his son's interest in these subjects. He later founded his own publishing house in Augsburg and became known as a prolific draftsman, engraver and publisher.

Nissen ZBI 3418; Schwerdt III:145; Thienemann 919-969.