Does the raised foreleg of an equestrian sculpture have symbolic meaning?

Answer 1

Some statues commemorating the Battle of Gettysburg follow this scheme, but it is not generally true.

At one time equestrian statues of military leaders could be read as follows: It the horse has both front legs in the air - the person depicted died in battle. If the horse has one leg in the air - the person depicted died as a result of wounds received in battle. If the horse has all four legs on the ground - the person depicted died from other (usually natural) causes. This symbolism does not necessarily hold true any longer... not all artists follow the old symbolism.