Showing in hand, Friesian brood mare and foal in the showring, The Netherlands

The Friesian (also Frisian) horse is a breed of horse from Friesland, a province of the Netherlands. It is one of Europe's oldest horses. Ancestors of the modern Friesians were used in mediaeval times to carry knights into battle.The horses have had an influence on other breeds such as the Shire horse, Clydesdale, Fell Pony and Dales Pony