Herdsman on Horseback (Buttero a cavallo) 1885

Giovanni Fattori's "Herdsman on Horseback" is an etching from 1885, showcasing his mastery of the medium. This small-scale print, measuring just 13.02 x 8.89 cm, depicts a figure on horseback, likely a "buttero," a traditional Tuscan herdsman. The work is known for its expressive lines and the dynamic composition, conveying a sense of movement and energy. Fattori's attention to detail is evident in the rendering of the horse's anatomy and the texture of the landscape, demonstrating his interest in realism. This print is a captivating example of Fattori's contribution to the Macchiaioli movement, an Italian art movement that emphasized naturalism and plein air painting.