Drum horse Major Juno sculpture by Zoe Carmichael unveiled

Drum horse Major Juno, known on the farm as Willa Rose, was one of three horses turned into pieces of art by the Household Cavalry’s first ever sculptor in residence, Zoe Carmichael.

(Image: The Army in London/ Facebook)

The equine sculptures were unveiled at the newly renovated Tilt Yard at Horse Guards Parade last week, as the equine inspirations as well as the artwork itself went on show.

Major Juno made history back in 2021 when she became the first mare ever to join the Household Cavalry since its inception in the 1660s.

She passed the rigorous training and was given her cavalry name by Queen Camilla last year.

Since then she has become the first female shire to be part of Trooping the Colour, carrying the famous silver drums both this year and in 2023.

She also made history in 2023 alongside fellow farm mate Ed, now known as Major Apollo, in what is believed to be the first pair of drum horses in the same Trooping the Colour parade, to have come from the same farm.

Zoe Carmichael is an award-winning sculptor who specialises in bronze animal sculptures, particularly horses.

She was smitten with Juno from the start saying: “She is a gentle giant and loves having her tummy scratched, so much so she will nuzzle you back with equal gumption.

(Image: The Army in London/ Facebook)

“I’m constantly patting, hugging her or kissing her on the nose. She is a beauty.”

The bronze sculpture of this history-making horse measures 60cm x 46cm x 26cm and weighs 55kg, the same weight as one of her silver drums. It is mounted on an Ombra Di Caravaggio Italian marble base with gold leaf engraving and plaque.

The sculpture is for sale as part of a limited edition and 10 per cent will be donated to the Household Cavalry Foundation. It will be available to view at the Osborne Studio Gallery in Belgravia from October 16 to November 2.