Baise horse | |
Features: | Small, but both strong and quick; thrives at high altitudes |
Also Known As: | Guangxi |
Country: | China |
The Baise (also known as the Guangxi) is a pony-sized horse breed native to the autonomous region of Guangxi, in southeastern China.[1] Like other Asian breeds (the Mongolian horse in particular), it thrives at high altitudes and roams freely when not working. Guangxi's mild climate has long favored horse breeding; bronze statues from the third to the first centuries BCE exist of horses very similar in conformation to the Baise.
The Baise horse is small, with an average height of ; it is smaller than other breeds in northern and western China.[2] Its head is heavy, with a straight profile and wide jaw; it has a medium-length neck, running down to straight shoulders. Its legs are strong and well-developed, with strong hooves The usual coat colors are black, chestnut, gray and bay. The Baise is strong and quick with a willing, able temperament. It is used as a riding and pack horse for tourism, on the farm and in harness; it is also used for meat.[3]
Baise horses are an important part of Guangxi village life, and are included in traditional wedding celebrations.