Maximus is a 6ft 4in, 402kg steel sculpture like no other. A de-constructed, muscular abstract Gladiatorial Steel Stallion inspired by the beautiful Spanish horse breed the Andalusian. Intended to stand proud as an outdoor centrepiece, the statue was galvanized to protect it from the elements, and ensure its longevity for generations to come.

But that’s only part of the story. Galvanizing Maximus provides the necessary weather protection, but also gives the sculpture stunning aesthetic appeal, and as a result it has gone on to receive worldwide acclaim, and has found its home in the spiritual ‘capital of the horse world’ in Lexington, Kentucky.

Nigel used his background in horseback jousting with the Knights of Royal England, and his early career as a farrier, to guide him in forging and shaping the sculpture, formed from pre-cut concave steel lengths used to make horse shoes. More than 470 hours of precise crafting resulted in the stallion sculpture, representing a powerful, graceful and noble horse.

The project was a true labour of love, motivated by spending time with a client’s horse, and was created as an off-spec, bespoke piece intended for sale. Maximus was crafted in sections, beginning with his legs, then back, tip lines and lower stomach. A muscular cage was created to map out the superficial muscle groups, the face was created from steel plate and the muzzle forged from a hollow steel 150mm sphere. Mane and tail were also created from steel plate. 

The individual pieces were forged, twisted and welded into specific positions to give strength and depth. Once complete, the intricate piece was sent to the galvanizer for careful processing. What was critical to the project was the eventual finish applied. Maximus was galvanized, not only to protect the sculpture from the elements as an outdoor centrepiece, but in order to directly contrast with a second stallion sculpture Nigel created, called ‘Magico.’

The resulting stallion was galvanized in one piece, and due to the complexity of the individual sculpted parts, hot-dip galvanizing was the only solution that would ensure all parts of the surface of the steel were coated - inside, outside, awkward corners and narrow gaps. The coating is able to build up at vital corners and edges, rather than thinning out as is often the case with brushed, sprayed and other dipped coatings.

The truly impressive galvanized sculpture is a testament not only to the hundreds of hours involved in its creation, but also to the stand-out and stunning aesthetic qualities of hot dip galvanizing as a finish. The piece has received worldwide acclaim, and has been invited to be exhibited at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington - the 'horse capital of the world.’ 

The sculpture is for sale, and so will serve as an iconic outdoor centrepiece for many years. As such, the protection afforded by hot dip galvanizing will ensure the sculpture remains in the very best condition for many generations.