Cheval Flamands 1822

Théodore Géricault made this lithograph, ‘Cheval Flamands’, in France in the early 19th century, a time of significant social upheaval following the French Revolution. The image depicts two Flemish horses in a pastoral setting, evoking a sense of tranquility. However, Géricault was not simply interested in creating a picturesque scene; he had a deep engagement with the political events of his time, particularly the Napoleonic wars, and a well-documented interest in the social role of the military and the horse within it. The focus on Flemish horses is significant. These animals were commonly used for farm work and transportation, so Géricault is referencing the laboring classes of the time. His choice is particularly interesting as it comes at a time when the social status of horses, as a purely military animal, was being challenged. To fully appreciate this artwork, consider the social conditions that shaped Géricault’s vision, delving into the archives of 19th-century French history. The meaning of art, like this lithograph, emerges from its social and institutional context.