Hoppen og føllet 1841

Andreas Flinch created this intimate line drawing of a mare and her foal in 1841. During the 19th century, the Biedermeier era emphasized domesticity, family values, and sentimental themes, and this drawing aligns with those cultural preferences. The image invites us to consider themes of motherhood, protection, and the nurturing bond between parent and child. The mare stands protectively over her foal, a universal symbol of maternal care. Yet, it is important to recognize that idealized images of motherhood often mask the complexities and challenges faced by women, particularly those marginalized by class or race. The focus on sentimental domesticity can obscure the socio-political realities of the time, where gender roles were strictly defined. Although seemingly simple, Flinch’s drawing reflects the values of its time, inviting us to reflect on how these values intersect with broader societal structures.