Woman on Rearing Horse, from "Ex Antiquis Cameorum et Gemmae Delineata/ Liber Secundus/et ab Enea Vico Parmen Incis" 1599 - 1622

Editor: This etching, "Woman on Rearing Horse," created sometime between 1599 and 1622, is fascinating. I am intrigued by its classical feel. What sort of symbolic significance might a rearing horse have in art of this period? Curator: The rearing horse! Yes, consider the symbolic power of the horse itself. Throughout history, horses represent status, power, freedom, and virility. In this print, notice how the woman dominates the horse even in its wild posture. Think of how deeply rooted the rearing horse is in the cultural memory of triumphal entries of rulers, or military victories. It becomes an icon of domination. Editor: That makes sense. The control she has seems to be emphasized by her loose grip on the reins. She appears to have a relaxed posture while her horse looks so strained. Is she an allegory? Curator: Precisely! It prompts one to consider: Is this a representation of earthly power? The kind acquired through lineage and brute strength? Or perhaps, is this female figure something more ethereal? Does it embody virtues like fortitude and courage? Notice, too, how the etcher evokes the style of ancient cameos… Could that provide a clue about its symbolic associations? Editor: I hadn't thought about that. The reference to ancient cameos infuses the subject with authority and history. I suppose viewers in the Renaissance may have viewed her more symbolically, because they were much closer to that historical memory. Curator: The symbolic weight is definitely amplified by that stylistic choice, connecting the subject matter to a powerful legacy. Today we see a lady riding a horse, yet, her intended audience recognized and appreciated the nuances of historical archetypes, or symbolic cultural language! Editor: Fascinating! I'll certainly never look at another equestrian portrait without considering its deeper historical context now. Thanks so much. Curator: It was my pleasure to share this perspective! These images are time capsules just waiting for someone to open them.