Paard 1881 - 1883

This sketch of a horse by George Hendrik Breitner, held at the Rijksmuseum, presents us with more than just an animal; it offers a glimpse into the psyche of both the artist and the viewer. The horse, a symbol deeply embedded in human history, carries diverse meanings across cultures. From representing power and nobility in ancient Rome to embodying freedom and wildness in Romantic art, the horse serves as a potent emotional trigger. Consider how equestrian statues of emperors and kings employ the horse to project authority, a tradition echoing in Breitner's time. Yet, here, the sketchy lines suggest a different interpretation, a raw, unrefined energy—perhaps reflecting the burgeoning industrial age's impact on traditional symbols. The gesture in this work is not of dominance but of observation, tapping into our collective memory and subconscious understanding of the animal. This cyclical progression allows the horse to resurface, evolving and accruing new meanings, engaging us on a primal level.