Man naast een trekpaard 1870 - 1931

Willem Bastiaan Tholen made this sketch of a man and a dray horse with charcoal on paper. This type of scene was a very common sight in the Netherlands and other parts of Europe throughout the 19th century. The image shows a large, strong horse standing next to a cart, presumably used for hauling heavy loads. The man stands beside the horse, likely its handler or owner. In the Netherlands, horses like these were essential for transporting goods and materials before the widespread use of motorized vehicles. This image highlights the reliance on animal labor in the pre-industrial economy and the close working relationship between humans and animals. To fully appreciate Tholen's work, we can consult historical records, photographs, and social studies that shed light on the lives of working-class people and the role of animals in the Dutch economy. By considering these sources, we can gain a deeper understanding of the social and economic context in which Tholen created this sketch.