Horses have seams and no primer. Seams will need to be sanded down to a smooth finish and then horse is ready for primer. Suggested paint is a water based paint. Apply a clear coat to finish. Horse comes with pole, finial and base. Poles are brass plated steel and measure 1 1/4" (OD) and are either 58" H or 48"H depending on size of horse. Base is white pine.