Horse with Black Eyes, Silver Bridal and Decorative Pattern
horse04 · Castle
Knights Kingdom I / Royal Knights · 1995 (Initial release in this specific print)
Figure ID
horse04
Theme
Castle
Year Released
1995 (Initial release in this specific print)
Rarity
Uncommon. This specific print variant was released in several mid-to-high level sets in the mid-90s. While not extremely rare, finding one with mint silver printing is difficult.
Head
The horse features the classic 'v1' non-poseable head mold. It has black eyes and a silver metallic bridal/harness print. The mane is molded as part of the primary body piece.
Torso
The body is the standard classic horse piece with a 1x2 stud cutout for a rider or saddle. It features silver metallic decorative printing on both the front and rear flanks, resembling barding straps or ceremonial gear.
Legs
Fixed, non-articulated legs consistent with the traditional LEGO horse mold used from 1984 through the early 2010s. The legs are white with no additional printing.
Accessories
None pictured, but traditionally paired with a 2x2 saddle (Part 4491) in red or blue, and often accompanied by a knight minifigure from the Royal Knights or King Leo's faction.
Color Scheme
Primary White with Metallic Silver accents. The silver ink used in this era is prone to rubbing off over time.
Printing Details
Pad printed silver metallic ink on both sides of the head and body. The alignment is generally centered on the flank of the horse. The eyes are simple black dots.
Variants
This is the Metallic Silver variant. Other versions exist with gold printing (used for King Leo), plain white without printing, and a version with a movable neck released in 2012.
Condition Notes
The most common issue is the fading or 'chipping' of the metallic silver print. Additionally, white plastic from this era is highly susceptible to UV yellowing. Check for stress marks on the four feet.
Estimated Value
Used: $4.00 - $8.00 USD; New (from sealed sets): $15.00+ USD. Pricing depends heavily on the 'shininess' of the silver print.
Price (New)
Originally included in sets ranging from $10.00 (6031 Fright Force) to $50.00+ (6090 Royal Knight's Castle).
Compatible Sets
Set 6090 Royal Knight's Castle, Set 6044 King's Carriage, Set 6008 Royal King, and Set 1752 Boat with Armor.
Character Background
This horse served as the primary steed for the Royal Knights faction, specifically designated for the King or his high-ranking guards within the Knights Kingdom lore.
Design Notes
This represents the 'second generation' of horse printing where metallic inks were introduced to add a sense of pageantry and royalty to the Castle theme.
Similar Minifigures
Horse with Gold Eyes and Bridle (horse08), Classic Black Horse, and the 2012 redesigned Posable Horse.
Collectibility
High for Castle fans. This specific horse is iconic to the 1995-1996 Royal Knights line and is a prerequisite for completing a 'Royal Knight's Castle' (6090) display.
History
The LEGO horse mold was first introduced in 1984. This 1995 silver variant marked a transition toward more detailed, faction-specific animal printing during the mid-90s 'System' era.
Interesting Facts
The silver ink on these horses is identical to the chrome-like ink used on the Royal King's crown and sword from the same era, meant to create a cohesive 'shining armor' aesthetic.
Display Suggestions
Ideally displayed with a red 2x2 saddle and a Royal Knight rider with a blue lion-crested shield. Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent the white plastic from yellowing.
Modification Potential
The 1x2 stud space allows for a variety of saddles or brick-built carriage attachments. The white color makes it a popular base for custom 'Pegasus' wings.
Overall Assessment
A foundational piece of 90s Castle history. It rates highly for nostalgia and aesthetic appeal, though its value is strictly tied to the preservation of the delicate silver printing.