The Shire Horse n.d.

William Nicholson made this woodcut of "The Shire Horse" at the turn of the 20th century, a time when the Arts and Crafts movement was in full swing. The movement emphasized traditional craftsmanship using simple often medieval forms, and often took aim at the industrial revolution, mass production, and the division of labor. Here, Nicholson uses simplified forms, bold outlines, and blocks of color which is typical of the woodcut medium. But rather than depicting a romanticized scene of rural life he shows a powerful draft horse. Shire horses were typically used for pulling heavy loads such as wagons, barges, and agricultural equipment. In Britain, the late 1800s marked a period of agricultural depression and uncertainty for those working on the land. Nicholson perhaps elevates this working animal to the status of a noble subject, a poignant commentary on changing social values. As art historians, understanding the social context and economic conditions surrounding an artwork allows us to understand the choices the artist made.