This extraordinary volume chronicles the complete history of the majestic horse. Over 1000 beautiful full color illustrations, maps and photographs combine with highly informative and lively text to trace the evolution of the horse, covering every major breed as well as its vital contributions to ancient and modern civilization.

In 10 major sections, The Encyclopedia of the Horse reveals the horse throughout history and around the world:
- The Story of the Horse - Equus to the modern horse
- Early Use - chariots, the Romans and more
- The Eastern Influence - desert horses, Islamic invasions, Mongols
- Classical Riding - armored knights, the Renaissance, circuses, the Spanish Riding School
- The Great Studs - U.K., Irish, U.S., the Warmbloods, the European and Eastern Studs
- The Influence of the Pony - British, European and Asian breeds
- The Americas - Conquistadors, American Indians, Kentucky
- The Working Horse - agriculture to industry, royal parades and mounted police
- The Horse at War - great warhorses, great commanders, great battles
- The Sporting Horse - Steeplechasing, harness racing, hunting

More than 150 vibrant photographs of the world's most important breeds - Dutch Camargues, Icelandics, Timor Ponies, Morgan and Shetlands - familiar as well as obscure breeds - were produced especially for this book. The origin, history and uses of each breed are explained and brought to life by fascinating historical anecdotes and little-known facts. An extensive glossary, maps and breed characteristics round out this remarkably comprehensive volume.

The Encyclopedia of the Horse is the most complete full color guide to the world of the horse and horse breeds ever produced. It is the essential reference for anyone who loves horses.