Two Horses c. 17th century

Curator: Here we have Karel Dujardin’s "Two Horses," a seemingly simple etching. Editor: My first thought is how stark and melancholic it feels, almost desolate. The fallen horse dominates the foreground. Curator: Dujardin, who lived from 1622 to 1678, situates this work within a larger narrative concerning labor and animal exploitation, particularly in the context of 17th-century Dutch society. Editor: Exactly, the etching's lines emphasize the sheer physicality and weight of these creatures, highlighting their use as working animals. The means of production here are so direct: the artist's hand, the plate, the press. Curator: It also speaks to themes of mortality and the cyclical nature of life, reminding us of the systemic violence inherent in societal structures that commodify living beings. Editor: True, and the materiality adds to the sense of realism. The stark contrast between the dark lines and the white paper creates a tangible sense of form and texture. Curator: It's a somber reflection on power dynamics, prompting us to consider our own relationship with animals. Editor: A powerful image indeed, one that makes us consider the labor behind even the most pastoral scenes.