The history of the Rothschild family is surpassed by dynasties such as the Habsburgs and Bourbons for their pan-European nature. In the mid-nineteenth century, the family was essentially at its zenith with some fifty residential palaces and boasting one of the greatest art collections to have been assembled by a private family. Furthermore, the exceptional quality of works of art reminds the viewer that, in their acquisitions, the family competed against some of the great public collections of the world. Whether or not intentional, the Rothschilds at the time were regarded as a dynasty in the true sense. With such substantial standing the family enjoyed many fashionable pursuits of the day. Horseracing was among the many favourites of the family and this brooch with the jockey wearing the family silks is an example of such enthusiasm.