In the world of Breyer horses, LSQ stands for Live Show Quality. This term is fundamental for collectors and hobbyists, especially those who participate in competitive model horse shows.
Understanding Live Show Quality (LSQ)
A Breyer model designated as LSQ indicates that it is in pristine condition, suitable for judging at live model horse shows. Achieving LSQ status means a model is considered to be in:
- Factory Mint Condition: This implies the model is exactly as it would have left the factory, without any post-production damage or wear.
- Near Mint Condition: Very close to factory mint, with only the most minuscule, almost undetectable imperfections that do not detract from its overall appearance.
Key Characteristics of an LSQ Model
For a Breyer horse to be classified as Live Show Quality, it must exhibit specific physical attributes demonstrating its excellent condition. These include:
- No Rubs: The paint finish must be intact without any areas where color has been worn away.
- No Scratches: The surface of the model should be free from any linear indentations or marks.
- No Breaks: There should be no chips, cracks, or fractured parts on the model.
Why LSQ Matters in Shows
The pursuit of LSQ models is vital for competitive showing. Judges at live model horse shows scrutinize models not just for their accurate representation of a real horse breed or discipline, but also significantly for their physical condition. A model with rubs, scratches, or breaks will typically be penalized, making it less competitive. Therefore, hobbyists strive to find and maintain models in LSQ condition to maximize their chances of placing well in shows.
