Although the discipline has ancient roots, dressage was first recognized as an important equestrian pursuit in the West during the Renaissance. The great European riding masters of that period developed a sequential training system that has changed little since then and classical dressage is considered the basis of trained modern dressage.The Aires above the ground, such as the Levade, was first used for military purposes and later performed by aristocrats in equestrian pageants. This beautiful needlework pillow was inspired from a painting of the Spanish Riding School circa 1780. It is made of 100% wool thread hand-crafted in intricate petit point. The bay horse is featured on a moss green background surrounded by a gold raw silk border and finished with a gold and bronze fringe edging. Back matches the front gold border and has a concealed zipper for cleaning (dry clean only). Poly insert. Pillow measures 18" x 18" (not including fringe).