An Artilleryman Leading his Horse into the Field c. 19th century

Editor: Here we have, "An Artilleryman Leading his Horse into the Field," attributed to Piotr Michalowski, with no firm date, rendered in ink and wash. There’s something so dynamic and turbulent about it, even though it's quite small. What catches your eye? Curator: Oh, the raw energy! It's like Michalowski captured a fleeting moment of pure, unbridled power. Look at the horse's straining muscles, the artilleryman’s determined posture. It feels less like a portrait and more like a visceral experience of war itself. Do you sense that too? Editor: Absolutely. It’s almost gestural, not overly detailed, yet so evocative. The wash seems to add to the feeling of movement. Thanks, that’s given me a lot to think about. Curator: My pleasure! It's amazing how just a few strokes can convey such intensity. Makes you wonder about the stories behind these silent figures, doesn’t it?