Dollar, a Bay Hunter in a loose Box 

Jean-Léon Gérôme painted this oil on canvas depicting a bay hunter named Dollar in a loose box. Made in 19th century France, this painting reflects the increasing importance of equestrian culture among the upper classes. Horse ownership and racing were potent symbols of wealth and status, tied to leisure and aristocratic tradition. The image, emphasizing Dollar's muscular form and healthy coat, catered to a market that prized both the practical and aesthetic qualities of these animals. Gérôme, a product of the French academic system, achieved fame for his Orientalist and historical scenes, yet this animal portrait hints at another facet of his practice, one closely tied to the patronage of the wealthy. Horses like Dollar were not merely animals; they were commodities and status symbols within a deeply stratified society. Understanding this artwork requires exploring the social history of equestrian sport and the economic structures that supported it. Art historians use stud books, sporting journals, and social registers to reveal the complex interplay between artistic production, social status, and economic power.