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19th-century Horsefair Grassmarket Edinburgh Scotland
Follower of Rosa Bonheur, a Scottish artist, oil on canvas

19th-Century Horse Fair in Grassmarket Edinburgh, Scotland: A Historical, Economic, and Artistic Legacy

The 19th-century horse fair in the Grassmarket of Edinburgh, Scotland, stands as a remarkable testament to a bygone era when horses were the lifeblood of urban commerce and social gatherings. This traditional Edinburgh horse fair not only served as a crucial hub for trade and economic exchange but also became an enduring symbol of Scottish cultural heritage. The event’s legacy lives on in art, local traditions, and even in the memorabilia sought after by collectors today. Below is an in-depth exploration of this historic event presented as an ordered list that covers every facet of its significance.

A Follower of Rosa Bonheur and the Artistic Inspiration1.1 Rosa Bonheur’s Influence on Scottish Art:
The 19th-century horse fair at Grassmarket has long inspired artists, much like the celebrated French painter Rosa Bonheur, known for her lifelike depictions of horses. As a follower of Rosa Bonheur, Scottish artists captured the bustling energy and realism of the event, evoking the spirit of a 19th-century Scottish fair.
One notable painting, inspired by Bonheur’s techniques, began its tour in February 1856 and traveled from Liverpool to Manchester and Birmingham before reaching Edinburgh. This journey culminated at the ALEXANDER HILL GALLERY, where the painting was admired for its detailed portrayal of horses, dogs, people, and even the Queen’s Guards mingling with the crowd.
1.2 Artistic Composition and Technique:

Composition:
The central focus of the painting is a lively crowd of people and horses that draws the viewer’s eye to the heart of the scene. The background, featuring Edinburgh Castle and traditional houses, creates depth and frames the bustling marketplace perfectly.
Use of Color:
Dominated by earth tones, the painting conveys a natural and realistic feel, while vibrant pops of red in clothing and rooftops provide contrast and balance. This artistic choice reflects the authentic vibrancy of the historic horse fair.
Brushwork:
Detailed brushwork brings the horses and people to life, showcasing the artist’s meticulous attention to realism. In contrast, the more atmospheric and impressionistic treatment of the sky and castle effectively separates the background from the busy foreground.
Perspective and Depth:
Skillful use of perspective is evident, as houses and the castle recede into the background, enhancing the overall sense of space. The arrangement of figures creates a dynamic representation of crowd dynamics, characteristic of a traditional Edinburgh horse fair.
Economic Significance: The Role of the 19th-Century Edinburgh Horse Fair2.1 A Hub of Trade and Commerce:
Marketplace Dynamics:
In 19th-century Edinburgh, horses were indispensable for transportation and labour, making them a major commodity in the bustling Grassmarket. This Edinburgh historic horse market was strategically located beneath the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, which provided a dramatic backdrop and an ideal setting for commerce.
Local and Regional Trade:
Farmers, traders, and buyers converged on the fair to buy and sell horses prized for their strength, speed, and utility. The event was instrumental in fueling local commerce and stimulating broader economic activities in the city.
2.2 Economic Impact on Local Communities:

Diverse Equestrian Breeds:
The fair showcased horses of various breeds, each meeting the different needs of the era. This diversity underpinned the fair’s role as a dynamic marketplace where innovation and tradition merged.
A Model for Economic Interaction:
The lively exchange of goods and spirited negotiations among participants made the event a prototype for economic exchange. For history

Condition

Condition
Original canvas, old previous repair and a small dent.
Verso
label T Alexander Hill
several old wax seals

• Period: 1870
• • Price: £7,500.00
  • €8,908 Euro
  • $9,707 US Dollar
• Location: Sussex
• • Dimensions: H: 65cm (25.59in)
  • W: 80cm (31.50in)
  • D: 0cm (0.00in)