Jockey on a Horse 1872 - 1882

Isidore Bonheur created this bronze sculpture, Jockey on a Horse, sometime in the late 19th century. It reflects the growing popularity of equestrian sports and the increasing visibility of the jockey as a celebrated figure in European society. Bonheur captures the careful relationship between the jockey and his mount, a relationship that had become a potent symbol of human control over the natural world, and this was particularly resonant in an era marked by industrial progress and scientific advancement. Horse racing at this time served as a theater for displays of wealth, competition, and social status. The bronze material and its display within a museum setting elevates what was considered popular culture into the realm of high art. Historians use archival materials, such as periodicals, photographs, and racing programs, to trace the evolution of equestrian sports. These offer insights into the cultural values and economic forces that shaped the production and reception of artworks like this one. By examining the social and institutional contexts of art, we can better understand its meaning and significance.