A horse breed originating in Friesland, a province in the northern Netherlands, historically a light draught horse used for farm work and transportation, though the modern Friesian is used for riding and driving. It is known above all for its all-black coat, long flowing mane and tail, feathering on the legs, high head carriage and high-stepping action, standing 15 to 16 hands (152 to 163 centimeters) tall and weighing 1,250 to 1,450 pounds, with a compact, muscular build and strong limbs. The breed is considered willing, active and energetic yet also gentle and docile, and today serves in competitive and recreational driving, including with the traditional high-wheeled Sjees cart, in dressage competition, and pulling vintage carriages at ceremonial parades; its dramatic appearance has also made it popular in film and television, particularly historical and fantasy productions.
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Era Of Origin
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Source Friesian horse (Wikipedia)HistoryQuote, History
These ancestors of the modern Friesians were used in medieval times to carry knights to battle.
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