Old colored lithograph by Fairland after W. Nicholson, from "The Breeds of the Domestic Animals of the British Isles" by David Low, published in London, 1842.
The lithograph depicts the New Leicester breed, showing a ram aged two years, bred by Mr. Buckley of Nuneaton Hill, Leicestershire.
The image showcases detailed illustrations of the breed, with particular attention to their wool and physical characteristics, set against a scenic backdrop. The lithograph was drawn on stone and printed by Fairland, with publication details indicating its release in March 1841 by Longman, Orme, Brown, Green, & Longmans, Paternoster Row, London.
Current Status of the New Leicester Breed
The New Leicester breed, also known as the Leicester Longwool, is a significant and influential breed in the history of sheep farming.
1. **Breeding and Distribution:** The Leicester Longwool is widely bred in the UK and other parts of the world, including Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. It played a crucial role in the development of many other sheep breeds due to its excellent wool and meat qualities.
2. **Economic Importance:** Leicester Longwool sheep are highly valued for their long, lustrous wool, which is ideal for spinning and weaving. The breed is also known for its meat, which is of high quality.
3. **Conservation and Popularity:** While the Leicester Longwool is not as common as it once was, there are dedicated efforts to preserve this historic breed. Organizations such as the Rare Breeds Survival Trust in the UK and similar groups in other countries work to maintain and promote the Leicester Longwool.
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