Horse 18th-19th century

Curator: This is Adam von Bartsch’s "Horse," and it’s quite striking, isn't it? The precision in the engraving beautifully captures the horse's form. Editor: Yes, there’s a quiet strength to it. I immediately think about the role of horses in agriculture and labor during this period and how this image might reinforce or challenge those roles. Curator: Von Bartsch was highly regarded for his printmaking techniques, especially his ability to mimic the textures of paintings through engraving. Notice the delicate lines used to define the musculature and the way he suggests light playing on the animal’s coat. Editor: It’s interesting to consider the social status associated with owning or depicting horses at the time. Were these images mainly for the wealthy, reinforcing a hierarchy? Curator: It is likely that this image was part of a larger series of prints used for study by artists. Editor: That changes my perspective! Thinking of it as a tool for artistic development shifts my focus to questions around access and education in the arts. Curator: A lot to consider from just one horse! Editor: Absolutely, it gives us much to think about regarding class and labor.