Single Figurines Jockey on Horse Sekretariat

With this extraordinary porcelain figure, MEISSEN opens a new chapter in the art of animal sculpture. Inspired by the idea of depicting a horse and jockey in full motion for the first time, the legendary racehorse "Secretariat" was brought to life in porcelain - the Thoroughbred that made history at the 1973 Kentucky Derby and whose record time remains unbeaten to this day. The sculpture was created by Maximilian Hagstotz, who has already made a name for himself at MEISSEN with his exceptionally lifelike and expressive portrayals of animals. Unlike the equestrian figures previously created at the manufactory, this work does not present the horse in a calm, representative pose, but captures a dramatic moment of supreme dynamism: the charge towards the finishing line. Horse and rider merge into a work of art filled with tension, strength and elegance. The jockey's blue-and-white colours, starting number 2 and the name "Secretariat" all refer to the most celebrated horse in American Derby history. Translating such a scene into porcelain posed an exceptional challenge. Extensive research was required to render the horse's anatomy with the same conviction as its speed and movement. Capturing the suspended phase of the gallop demanded the highest degree of sculptural precision. As porcelain softens during firing at approximately 1,400 °C, structural supports had to be incorporated into the design from the outset in order to ensure both stability and expressive power. The finely modelled porcelain reins proved particularly delicate, requiring outstanding technical skill and extensive experience. This figure therefore combines artistic expression, masterful craftsmanship and technical sophistication. In honouring "Secretariat", it not only celebrates a legendary racehorse, but also preserves in porcelain a moment in which movement, victory and history are captured for eternity.