uffington

Uffington White Horse 29

Image by ginger tt

Scott7 Jun 11, 2002 16:14:55

Went up to Uffington White Horse again on Sunday.

I have heard and read that even throughout the Middle Ages there was some kind of "Cleaning Festival" once a year at the top of the hill.

The fact that the image has survived to this day really is a kind of miracle though. I've also read that the image has altered throughout time, and I was wondering if anyone had any links or info on what it looked like in its original state.

One can certainly make some fairly sound theories as to the use and meaning behind stone circles and dolmens, but the Uffington Horse truly is enigmatic. Man, i would love to know the inspiration behind it.

In my opinion, it is one of Britain's greatest treasures. You don't get many images as powerful as that.

Take care,

scott

Chris Collyer Jun 11, 2002 19:02:38

Replying to Scott7

Hi Scott

I was always lead to believe that the horse was late Iron Age/Romano, there are similar depictions of horses on coins of the time, particularly of the Atrebates tribe who were around this area - although so were the Dubonni and Catuvellauni I think. The prominent position on the side of the hill suggests to me that it may have been some kind of tribal emblem designed to be seen from a distance, a sort of ‘we live here’ warning to other groups.

I’ve no idea if it has changed shape over the years though, it was first recorded in the 11th century, so there must be some early illustrations of it somewhere.

Got to agree with you though, it’s a mighty fine beastie.

-Chris

fitzcoraldo Jun 11, 2002 22:38:58

Replying to Scott7

Hiya Scott
You need a book called "Lost Gods Of Albion, The chalk Hill-Figures of Albion" By Paul Newman
The paperback edition came out in 1999
Its a crackin' book and has the answer to all your questions.
Cheers

BrigantesNation Jun 12, 2002 01:18:56

Replying to Scott7

Uffington to me IS THE MOST important place in the world. I had my first and strongest magical moment there. It's what sent me off looking at the stars and stones and hills and mounds, it is the reason I exist.

LONG LIVE UFFINGTON!

RiotGibbon Jun 12, 2002 17:27:57

Replying to Scott7

the Hillfigure book is the one - tells you all about it ...

don't forget Bledlow and Whiteleaf further up the Ridgeway ...

oh, and "Scouring" is the word you were looking for ... big festy up in the hillfort ... nice