the stallion was born in west springfield, massachusetts in 1789. the small, dark colt is believed to have been sired by an english thoroughbred stallion named "true briton", also known as "beautiful bay" and "traveller", which was foaled in 1768. figure's dam was of "wild-air" breeding, sired by diamond, foaled in 1784 in west springfield. the dam was bred by justin morgan, for whom the breed is named. figure is thought to have stood about 14 hh (1.42 m), and to have weighed about 950 lb (430 kg). he was known for his prepotency, passing on his distinctive looks, conformation, temperament, and athleticism.