LOVING LIFE – Jumping Horse (Irish Sports Horse)

Focused on the next jump, this equestrian bronze sculpture captures the powerful frame and alert expression of an Irish Sport Horse mid-flight.

This sculpture is a technical study of the “fifth leg”—the innate balance and power that defines the Irish Sport Horse (ISH). When sculpting “Comet,” a renowned hunter, I focused on the specific structural traits that make this breed a legendary athlete:

• Powerful Hindquarters: I emphasized the muscular “engine” required for the explosive take-off needed to clear heavy hedges and cross-country obstacles.

• Dynamic Movement: By sculpting the horse turning into the jump, the piece captures how an ISH maintains balance and agility mid-air.

• Alert Expression: The head is turned with pricked ears, showcasing the breed’s famous focus and intelligent “lock-on” to the next fence.

Elspeth Scott who owns Comet commented on my work: “I came across Jane’s work some years ago and I couldn’t resist her hare’s head which was later followed by a spaniel and have recently commissioned a bronze of my daughter’s last horse. Jane’s care and attention to detail on this project has been phenomenal. She has involved my daughter in the whole process, listening to what she has suggested, and has been determined to capture not only shape and movement but also his character. She has done this perfectly. It will be a much treasured reminder of a fabulous hunting horse.”