Twee paarden 1881 - 1883

George Hendrik Breitner’s pencil drawing captures two horses in motion, their forms sketched with a raw immediacy. Horses, throughout history, symbolize vitality, strength, and freedom. From the steeds of ancient Greek gods to the workhorses of the industrial age, their image evokes a primal connection to nature and power. One might recall the dynamic horse imagery in Delacroix's works, or even further back, to the equestrian statues of Roman emperors, each carrying a resonance of dominance and control. Yet here, Breitner presents a different perspective. These are not symbols of triumph, but figures caught in their daily existence. This sketch, with its loose lines, conveys an emotional truth—a fleeting glimpse into the working life of the city. It reflects a collective memory of labor, reminding us how symbols evolve, adapting to new cultural contexts while retaining echoes of their past glory.