Intro
Also know as Navarrin, Navarrin, Navarran, Bigurd or Tarbais, the Bigourdan Horse was an ancient breed which came mainly from the plains of the Pyrenees near Tarbes. This is a French offshoot of the Navarrine Pony found in the Spanish Pyrenees. From what we can tell, the original stock is called Navarrin in French and Navarra in Spanish.
Origins
This handsome horse had a reputation as a classy mount throughout the 18th century. It was a small but strong, lively horse, well suited for everything from cavalry to dressage. They continued to remain in favor into the 19th century as mounts for the Napoleonic armies. During this time they were crossed with first Arabian blood to keep their herds thriving. Later Thoroughbred animals in the hopes of enhancing height.
Obviously these crosses began to change the conformation of the breed and the original bloodlines began to disappear. By the end of the 19th century, their breeding had been abandoned and they were absorbed into Anglo-Arabian studbooks.
A Relative of the Andalusian
Spain and France aren’t that far from each other and the mighty Spanish Pura Raza itself blood is a foundation for this hardy pony. They had changed over time to be larger and leaner, with a thinner neck, lower back and more angular overall. However they were lighter and more vigorous mounts, better suited to mountain terrain.
Once crosses with Arabian began, their Baroque blood was ever further diluted. They began to take on smaller, dryer and more elegant characteristics as the Arabian animals they were crossed with (and presumably their offspring) thrived in the Pyrenees climate.
Lots of Names
This hardy animal has been known by many names over its existence. The name Navarrin horse is the oldest and meant to describe the original animals that come from the Pyrenees. This is most likely the same original animal the Spanish call Navarra Pony. After the original crosses with Arabians were made, the name changed to Spatian Horse. After Thoroughbred blood was added, the name changed to Bangerous, Bangerurdins or Bigourdan.
Features
Average height 14.5-14.9 hands, any taller and they were said to loose the harmony in their proportions
Physique Pre Arabian
Head is large, often with convex profile
Neck is strong and arched
Body is thick
High set tail
Legs are thin and dry
Feet are small and strong
Physique Post Arabian
Head is lighter, often with bulging forehead
Neck long and well formed
Body is refined
High set tail
Legs are thin and dry
Feet are small and strong
Traditional Colors
All colors
Temperament
Serious and strong
Energetic and intelligent
Use
Riding
Transport
Cavalry
Carriage horse
Racing
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