Horses and Dog 1600 - 1700

This drawing, "Horses and Dog," now in the Met's collection, presents a fascinating glimpse into the world of anonymous artistry. The sketch brings up questions about the representation of animals in art and the hierarchical relationships between humans and animals. The powerful horses, symbols of status and virility, contrast with the dog below, which seems caught between loyalty and subjugation. The absence of a known artist's identity invites us to speculate about who might have created this piece. Was it a master honing their craft or someone outside the established art world, offering a different perspective on these familiar subjects? While the artist remains unknown, the drawing serves as a reminder of the diverse voices and experiences that have shaped our visual culture.