Laggard, from The World's Racers series (N32) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1888

This chromolithograph, part of Allen & Ginter's "World's Racers" series, presents us with a racehorse and its jockey. The horse, though named "Laggard," a word suggesting slowness, is depicted with a muscular build. Consider the horse: throughout history, it has been a potent symbol of energy, virility, and, of course, power. From the steeds of the Greek gods to the warhorses of medieval knights, the animal carries deep cultural significance. In ancient Rome, equestrian statues were erected to honor emperors, celebrating their command and authority. Yet, here, the horse is labeled "Laggard," a curious contradiction. Perhaps this is a commentary on the unpredictable nature of life itself. The horse, an archetype of might, is reduced to a state of delay. This evokes a psychological tension, reflecting our own anxieties about potential and unfulfilled expectations. The artist plays with our collective memory, reminding us that even the mightiest can stumble.