Carousel horses, also known as merry-go-round horses, have captivated generations of children and adults alike with their vibrant colors, elegant designs, and nostalgic charm.
Though often taken for granted as whimsical amusement park fixtures, carousel horses are actually intricate works of art and craftsmanship. This article explores what carousel horses are made of, delving into their history, the materials used in their construction, and how modern techniques have evolved over time.
1. A Brief History of Carousel Horses
The origins of the carousel date back to medieval times, when knights would practice jousting by riding in circles while tossing balls to each other.
This training game inspired the creation of rotating platforms with horses for entertainment purposes. By the 18th and 19th centuries, carousels became popular in Europe and later in America, evolving into the elaborate amusement rides we recognize today.
The golden age of the American carousel occurred between the late 1800s and the early 1930s. During this time, carousel horses were hand-carved and painted by master craftsmen, resulting in unique and ornate figures that remain collector’s items today.
2. Traditional Materials: The Art of Wood Carving
2.1. Wood
In the early days, carousel horses were primarily made of wood, especially during the golden age of carousel carving in the United States.
The most commonly used wood was basswood or poplar due to its softness, light weight, and ease of carving. Other woods like pine, maple, and mahogany were also occasionally used. (See Also: How Horses Help Humans)
Each wooden horse was crafted by skilled artisans who carved the body, head, legs, and tail separately before assembling them into a complete figure.
After the carving process, the horses were sanded and painted, often with bright colors, gold leaf, and decorative trimmings. These wooden horses were mounted on poles and attached to rotating platforms, allowing them to move up and down as the carousel turned.
2.2. Iron and Steel (for Internal Support)
While the exterior of traditional carousel horses was made of wood, internal support structures were often reinforced with iron or steel rods. This provided durability and helped the horses withstand constant movement and weight over time.
2.3. Leather and Glass
In some elaborate designs, additional materials like leather saddles, glass eyes, and even real horsehair tails were used to give the horses a lifelike appearance. These details added to the realism and charm of the figures.
3. Modern Materials: A Shift Toward Durability
As technology and materials improved, the construction of carousel horses evolved. Today, most carousel animals are made from fiberglass or plastic, rather than traditional wood.
3.1. Fiberglass
Fiberglass became the material of choice in the mid-20th century due to its strength, durability, and resistance to weather. Unlike wood, fiberglass does not rot, crack, or warp, making it ideal for outdoor carousels that are exposed to the elements.
Fiberglass carousel horses are made using molds. An original wooden horse or model is used to create a mold, into which fiberglass resin is poured.
Once hardened, the piece is removed from the mold, sanded, painted, and decorated. This process allows for mass production and consistent replication of designs while reducing the labor-intensive work of hand carving.
3.2. Plastic and Resin Composites
In addition to fiberglass, other resin-based composites and plastics are used to create lightweight and weather-resistant carousel figures. These materials are especially popular for smaller carousels found in shopping malls or mobile amusement rides.
3.2. Metal Components
Modern carousel horses still rely on metal frameworks and poles for structural support. The internal mechanisms of the carousel, including the gears and motors that move the horses up and down, are typically made of steel or aluminum.
4. The Role of Paint and Decoration
Regardless of the material used, one of the most important aspects of a carousel horse is its decoration. These figures are traditionally painted in bright, eye-catching colors, often with hand-painted details such as bridles, saddles, jewels, and feathers. Many carousel horses are adorned with gold leaf, giving them a rich, ornate appearance.
In historical carousels, paint was applied in multiple layers, sealed with varnish to protect the finish. Today, acrylic paints and modern sealants are used to ensure longevity and resistance to fading. Restoration artists often spend hundreds of hours returning old horses to their former glory using historically accurate techniques.
5. Styles of Carousel Horses
The materials used can also vary depending on the style of the carousel horse. There are three main styles:
- Coney Island Style: Known for flamboyant, highly detailed horses with dramatic poses and decorations. Often made of wood or fiberglass in modern replicas.
- Philadelphia Style: More realistic and anatomically accurate, with a focus on lifelike features.
- Country Fair Style: Simpler and less ornate, designed for traveling carousels. These were often lighter and made with fewer fragile materials.
Conclusion
From the early days of hand-carved wooden masterpieces to today’s durable fiberglass figures, carousel horses have undergone a fascinating evolution in materials and design. Understanding what carousel horses are made of helps us appreciate the craftsmanship and innovation behind these timeless creations.