Black Horse Legends

"JETSTREAM"

McCullough Peaks, WY

Stories of black horses are common in myths, legends, literature, and even cinema, stimulating our imaginations, firing our passions, and sometimes even creating a sense of awe and terror.

Some of my most popular wild horse photography features black wild mustangs.

When you encounter one in the wild, it draws you in and is unforgettable.

Black Beauty

Perhaps the most iconic black horse in literature is Black Beauty, the main character of Anna Sewell’s late 19th century classic novel. Black Beauty tells the story of a horse's life from his own perspective, charting his experiences from perfect pastures to harsh working conditions. Sewell’s work has resonated with readers for over a century, emphasizing the bond between humans and animals and advocating for kindness and compassion.

Bucephalus

One of the most legendary black horses in history is Bucephalus, the loyal horse of Alexander the Great. According to legend, Bucephalus was a fierce and untamed horse that no one could ride until the young Alexander tamed him by understanding his fear of his own shadow. This bond between man and horse became a symbol of Alexander's leadership and it is a bond I have witnessed many times in real life. The story of Bucephalus and Alexander highlights the deep connection and mutual respect that can exist between a rider and his horse.

The Black Stallion

Walter Farley’s The Black Stallion series remains popular with readers young and old for the way it captures our imaginations. The series begins with a young boy named Alec Ramsay who survives a shipwreck and forms a bond with a wild black stallion on a deserted island. 

This series has been adapted into films and continues to be a beloved tale of adventure and the unbreakable bond between human and horse.

Pegasus

While Pegasus, the winged horse of Greek mythology, is traditionally shown as white, some interpretations and artistic renditions imagine him as black.

"LEGEND" from the series "Grace Within Shadows"

Pegasus sprang from the blood of the Gorgon Medusa and became a symbol of poetic inspiration and heroism. The image of a black Pegasus soaring through the skies brings a sense of otherworldly power and majesty, adding a layer of enigma to this already fascinating mythological creature.

The Headless Horseman’s Mount

One of my husband’s favorites… In Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, the Headless Horseman’s black horse adds to the frighting atmosphere of the story. This spectral figure, said to be the ghost of a Hessian soldier who lost his head to a cannonball, rides through the night on a powerful black horse, haunting the dark, winding roads of Sleepy Hollow. The image of the headless horseman and his imposing black horse has become an enduring part of American folklore, symbolizing fear and the supernatural.

Photo Credit: Maria Marriott Photography

Arion

In Greek mythology, Arion is a divinely-bred, immensely powerful horse with the gift of speech. Often depicted as a black horse, Arion was born from the union of Poseidon and Demeter in her form as a horse. Arion’s speed and intelligence made him a coveted equine for heroes, enhancing his legendary status. This mythological creature’s tale underscores the divine and extraordinary attributes often given to black horses in ancient stories.

Zorro’s Tornado

Tornado, the horse of the masked vigilante Zorro, is another famous black horse that has captured the imagination of audiences. Known for his speed and intelligence, Tornado aids Zorro in his fight against injustice in Spanish California. The black horse, with its sleek and powerful appearance, complements Zorro’s mysterious and heroic persona, making them an iconic duo in literature and film.

These stories of black horses, so prevalent throughout history, myth, and literature, leave a strong mark on our cultural consciousness.

About Maria Marriott

Maria's equine artwork has been recognized for its emotional impact and intimate portrayal of wild horses.

Maria works closely with several non-profit organizations focused on the benefits of equine therapy and preservation of the mustangs on US Western lands.