Quite the interesting cover actually. Boris Vallejo circa 1979. The french word for horse is un cheval which is masculine version and in singular reference "a horse". Boris has done many a fantasy artcover as we all know to include a number of the Tarzan and Conan series. Many featuring models of his wife's face. Even his son Dorian has ventured into the fantasy artworld. But, to the point, Im sure that it was just the cover, after all, is a female, uncollared, barely clothed and riding the forefront. I wouldnt say a taluna or panther due to the fine jewelry and of course the turban, but hey, who knows. Granted the Artwork was entitled Nomads but that could be in reference to gypsies, desert nomads or any inkling of wanders from history or fantasy.
http://www.imaginistix.com/details.cfm?Id=1168Raz