Coach Horse Ridden by a Groom c. 1820 - 1821

Editor: This is Théodore Géricault's "Coach Horse Ridden by a Groom." It's an ink drawing, and the stark contrast makes the horse and rider almost jump off the page. What stands out to you about this work? Curator: The image, especially in its time, speaks volumes about class and labor. The groom, likely a member of the working class, is literally "on" the back of the animal, a symbol often associated with power and aristocracy. What power dynamics do you observe here? Editor: I see how the groom, though riding, is still in service to the horse and by extension, the owner. It's a complex relationship. Curator: Precisely. Géricault often explored such social tensions. It’s fascinating to consider how seemingly simple depictions reveal these layered hierarchies. Editor: I hadn't considered the social commentary. Thanks for pointing that out! Curator: My pleasure. Art gives us insight into lives during other eras.