Landschap met steigerend paard c. 1590 - 1637

Egbert van Panderen created this print of a landscape with a rearing horse in the early 17th century. During this time, horses were symbols of power and status, inextricably linked to military might and aristocratic privilege. Here, the horse is depicted in a moment of dramatic tension, rearing up against a seemingly idyllic landscape, but there is a sense of unease, as the horse dominates the scene, imposing its will on the landscape. We can see the imprint of hierarchical social structures as the horse embodies ideals of control and mastery, reflecting the values of the ruling classes. The Latin inscription suggests a narrative of taming and control, perhaps mirroring the dynamics between the colonizer and the colonized. Consider how the image negotiates the complexities of power, freedom, and subjugation. It invites us to reflect on the legacies of colonialism, class structures, and the narratives we construct about ourselves.