The High-mettled Racer 1789

"The High-mettled Racer" is a satirical print by Thomas Rowlandson, created in 1789. Rowlandson, a prominent English artist of the late 18th and early 19th centuries, is well-known for his caricatures and social commentary. This artwork depicts a horse race, with the main focus on the jockey and his horse, who are depicted in a dramatic, almost heroic pose. Rowlandson's use of exaggerated figures and humorous details emphasizes the excitement and chaos of the sporting event, likely a popular activity among the English gentry of the time. The print serves as a reflection of social life and entertainment in late 18th-century England, offering a glimpse into the popular culture of the era.