Horses
Majestic and Beautiful
Developing a successful partnership with a horse can be immensely rewarding deeply rooted in cultural traditions and folklore. that express freedom, power, and nobility.
Master D.M.Lee | 8/4/2023
Rosa Bonheur, The Horse Fair 1852 MMA 55 87.25
This is Rosa Bonheur's most renowned painting, capturing the bustling horse market held on the tree-lined Boulevard de l'Hôpital in Paris, with the Salpêtrière asylum visible in the background on the left. For a year and a half, Bonheur diligently sketched at the market twice a week, adopting a disguise as a man to avoid drawing undue attention.
At the time of its debut in the Paris Salon of 1853, Bonheur was already an established animal painter, and her masterpiece received widespread acclaim. To create the final composition, she drew inspiration from artistic greats like George Stubbs, Théodore Géricault, Eugène Delacroix, and ancient Greek sculpture. In fact, she likened her magnum opus, "The Horse Fair," to her own version of the "Parthenon frieze," showcasing the depth and significance she ascribed to this exceptional work.
The Akhal-Teke
A rare and remarkable horse breed originating from Turkmenistan. Renowned for its metallic coat sheen, it is often referred to as "the golden horse." This unique feature, resulting from fine and translucent hairs, gives them a striking glow, particularly under sunlight.
Apart from their stunning appearance, Akhal-Tekes are known for their exceptional endurance, agility, and speed. Their ability to withstand harsh desert conditions and cover long distances without tiring has made them valuable as both war horses and long-distance riding companions.
Despite facing extinction threats in the 20th century, dedicated preservation efforts have helped revive the Akhal-Teke breed. Today, they are celebrated as a symbol of national pride and cultural heritage in Turkmenistan and continue to captivate equestrians worldwide with their beauty, resilience, and historical significance.
Théodore Gericault, Horsewoman,1820, MMA 2019.141.11
Throughout his life, Gericault devoted considerable attention to studying horses, and during his stay in England from 1820 to 1821, he found inspiration to create a series of artworks portraying the elegance of horsemanship and sport. In this particular painting, we see an enigmatic woman dressed in fashionable attire, gracefully riding sidesaddle. The identity of this woman remains a matter of speculation, adding an air of mystery to the scene.
Both the horse and the rider are portrayed in a frieze-like profile, capturing a sense of classical artistry. The woman's calm and composed control over her mount stands in striking contrast to the dramatic and foreboding sky that does not seem to disturb their harmony. Gericault's artistic vision reimagines the conventional French image of a horsewoman, known as an "Amazone," a term derived from ancient texts that spoke of a legendary civilization of warrior women celebrated for their bravery in battle.
In this painting, Gericault presents a unique blend of elegance, strength, and artistic reinterpretation, showcasing his exceptional ability to breathe life into both the subject and the environment, making this artwork a timeless testament to his artistic prowess and innovation.
The Marwari Horse
Originating from the Marwar region of India, this horse stands out for its distinctive inward-turning ears. Known for their grace, agility, and bravery, Marwari horses are highly versatile and excel in various equestrian disciplines, including dressage, showjumping, and endurance riding. Their robust build and enduring stamina make them valuable partners for riders seeking reliable and capable mounts.
In addition to their practical uses, Marwari horses hold immense cultural significance in India. They are an integral part of traditional Indian ceremonies, processions, and celebrations, where their elegance and poise are showcased. Adorned with ornate decorations, these horses become captivating symbols of religious and cultural festivities.
Throughout history, Marwari horses played a crucial role in Rajasthan's martial traditions, once esteemed as warhorses admired for their bravery and loyalty. Although their population faced challenges in the past, dedicated conservation efforts have helped preserve and promote the Marwari breed, ensuring that these magnificent creatures continue to enchant equestrians and spectators worldwide, combining their unique appearance with admirable qualities cherished for generations.
Juan Bautista Martínez del Mazo , Don Gaspar de Guzmán, 1636 MMA 52.125
The Count-Duke of Olivares held immense power as Philip IV's prime minister from 1621 to 1643. The artwork in question is either a preliminary model or a scaled-down version of a grand equestrian portrait of the count-duke, currently displayed at the Prado Museum in Madrid. This painting could have been created to commemorate the count-duke's victory over the French at Fuenterrabía in 1638. In this depiction, the count-duke is portrayed in full armor, holding a baton, and exuding the aura of a triumphant commander. His horse is captured in a dressage position known as a levade, further enhancing the sense of power and authority.
Around 1635, Velázquez, the renowned artist, had created a life-size portrait of the count-duke on horseback, which now resides in the Museo del Prado. Based on Velázquez's composition, his son-in-law and pupil, Juan Bautista del Mazo, skillfully crafted this smaller version. The artwork stands as one of Mazo's most accomplished paintings, highlighting the significance of Velázquez's workshop in cementing political and social influence by widely circulating portraits of influential figures. This artwork serves as a testament to the artistic legacy and impact of Velázquez and his successors in capturing the essence of powerful personalities through their masterful brushwork.
The Gypsy Vanner
The Gypsy Vanner is a visually striking horse breed with a colorful coat and luxurious feathering on its legs. Originally bred by the Romani people in the UK, these horses are renowned for their beauty and robust build. Standing between 13.2 to 15.2 hands tall, they have a strong and compact frame, making them versatile working animals.
Apart from their captivating looks, Gypsy Vanners are known for their friendly and gentle temperament, making them ideal for both beginners and experienced riders. Despite their elegant appearance, they have a history as reliable caravan pullers, showcasing their strength and endurance.
Today, Gypsy Vanners are highly sought after internationally for various equestrian disciplines, including driving and riding. Their combination of beauty, versatility, and friendly nature has made them popular as show horses and beloved companions alike.
Bakhta, Equestrian Portrait of a Noble, 1775, India MMA 1997.359
Rajput paintings are renowned for their exquisite precision and painstaking attention to detail, akin to the brilliance of precious jewels. This particular drawing exemplifies the remarkable versatility of Rajput artists' lines, capturing swift, expressive, and diverse strokes. Whether it be conveying the bulging muscles of a forearm, the taut belly of a horse, or the wiry bristles of a Rajput mustache, the artist's skill shines through.
Equestrian portraits were a customary and formal way of honoring nobleman or warriors. However, this portrait stands apart, appearing more like a caricature of its subject. The mustache and beard curl back on his face with a touch of scratchy pomposity, and the horse seems to bend and whinny, appearing to bear the weight of the subject's prodigious stature humorously.
Deogarh, situated to the north, was a tikhana or feudatory state of Mewar, providing historical context to this captivating and lighthearted depiction.
The Caspian Horse
The Caspian horse is one of the world's smallest horse breeds, originally found near the Caspian Sea. Despite their small size, they are known for their agility and energy. Their compact build and light frame enable them to navigate challenging terrain and swift movements with ease, making them versatile for various tasks, including herding, riding, and light draft work.
With a lively and spirited demeanor, Caspian horses possess intelligence and a willingness to learn, making them trainable and adaptable to different equestrian disciplines. They are friendly and amiable, endearing them to their owners and handlers. Although their survival as a breed has faced challenges in the past, dedicated efforts by enthusiasts and conservationists have helped revive their population and preserve their unique genetic heritage.
Today, the Caspian horse continues to captivate people worldwide with its charming appearance and remarkable abilities. Whether as a cherished companion or a competitive partner in various equestrian pursuits, the Caspian horse stands as a testament to the enduring bond between humans and horses throughout history.
Horace Vernet, The Start of the Race of the Riderless Horses, 1820 MMA 87.15.47
The Carnival in Rome, celebrated every February before Lent, featured thrilling races of riderless horses that captured the attention of all. In Vernet's exquisite painting, the scene unfolds at the Piazza del Popolo, where grooms labor to restrain the spirited horses just before the commencement of the race, known as "la mossa." This spectacle was described by Goethe as "one of the finest sights that can be seen anywhere in the world."
Interestingly, Vernet was well aware of his friend Gericault's studies of the same race when he embarked on this artistic endeavor. The painting served as a preparatory piece for a larger composition that was later acquired by the French Ambassador to Rome, now residing in a private collection. Vernet's skillful brushwork captures the anticipation and excitement of the event, presenting a vivid and captivating portrayal of this exhilarating tradition during Rome's Carnival.
The Shire
The Shire is a majestic and powerful draft horse breed originating from England. Renowned for its immense size and strength, it has a significant historical role in heavy farm work and hauling large loads. Standing as one of the largest horse breeds globally, Shires typically reach heights of 17 to 19 hands and can weigh over a ton, making them true giants among equines.
Throughout history, the Shire played a crucial role in agriculture, pulling plows and carts to help farmers cultivate vast fields and transport heavy goods. Their gentle temperament and willingness to work earned them the affectionate title of "gentle giants." Beyond farming, Shires were utilized in urban settings to pull carriages and wagons, becoming a symbol of strength and reliability in various tasks.
Although the demand for draft horses diminished with the advent of modern machinery, the Shire's historical significance and charm have sustained its existence and admiration among horse enthusiasts. Today, it continues to captivate people worldwide, whether in agricultural shows, carriage-driving competitions, or as cherished companions, preserving the enduring bond between humans and horses and their vital role in shaping our shared heritage.
Edgar Degas, Race Horses, 1885–88 MMA 1999.288.3
Throughout his artistic career, Degas was drawn to the world of horse racing, a recurring theme in his body of work. He had a distinctive approach, skillfully manipulating the portrayal of horses and jockeys across his paintings. In this particular artwork, all the figures had appeared in his earlier works, and interestingly, some of the poses had even more illustrious origins than the horses themselves. The central prancing horse and its rider were inspired by Benozzo Gozzoli's "Journey of the Magi" in the Palazzo Medici-Riccardi, Florence, an artwork that Degas had meticulously copied back in 1859.
What sets this piece apart is its medium—a pastel executed on a simple, unvarnished panel. Degas displayed his mastery in economizing his techniques, using the wood's natural hue to color the sky and the distant landscape. The wood panel also provided a warm undertone for the foreground, adding depth and dimension to the overall composition. This amalgamation of meticulous skill and innovative use of materials makes this painting truly remarkable in Degas's repertoire.
The Knabstrupper
The Knabstrupper is a unique and captivating horse breed hailing from Denmark. Its most striking feature is its coat pattern, adorned with spots and leopard-like markings, making it stand out among other breeds. Originally developed as a baroque-style horse in the 1800s, the Knabstrupper has evolved into a versatile breed, excelling in riding, driving, and dressage.
Knabstruppers' strong and well-muscled build makes them well-suited for various equestrian disciplines. They display an elegant and balanced gait, making them particularly adept at dressage, where precision and harmony with the rider are paramount. Beyond dressage, they excel in other riding activities such as jumping and eventing, showcasing their athleticism and talent.
Apart from their impressive physical attributes and skills, Knabstruppers are known for their calm and friendly temperament, forming strong bonds with their handlers. This amiable nature adds to their appeal, making them sought-after companions for riders of all levels. As the Knabstrupper's reputation and popularity continue to grow worldwide, their exceptional beauty and versatility leave a lasting impression on all who encounter them.
Krishna Killing the Horse Demon Keshi, Gupta period 5th c. MMA 1991.300
Vishnu assumes countless forms (avatars) on Earth, but among them, none is as beloved as Krishna, the warrior-king who liberated his people from malevolent threats. Once, in his youthful form, Krishna vanquished the demon Keshi, who had taken the guise of a horse. This narrative possibly finds its roots in Hellenistic legends, notably the labors of Hercules, where the Greek hero defeated the horses of Diomedes. In a remarkable terracotta relief, Krishna is portrayed subduing the fierce Keshi with his foot while driving his elbow into the beast's throat. Beneath them lie the lifeless horse and the dung expelled at the moment of death.
The vivid portrayal of this subject serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of horse sacrifices in early Indian Vedic rituals, and undoubtedly preserves a memory of the Krishna myth within these practices. Temple construction thrived in India during the Gupta period, and these brick and stone edifices were often adorned with terracotta plaques depicting various scenes, among which the depiction of Krishna was particularly popular.
The Sorraia
The Sorraia horse is an ancient and primitive breed originating from the Iberian Peninsula. Known for its dun color and primitive markings, it carries genetic ties to wild horses that once roamed freely in the region. With its sturdy build and distinctive coat, the Sorraia is a living link to the past, reflecting the characteristics of ancient horses that thrived in the wild.
Traditionally, the Sorraia played a crucial role in herding practices, where its agility and intelligence made it adept at handling livestock in challenging terrains. Beyond herding, the breed is also used for traditional riding, valued for its surefootedness and endurance. Despite facing threats of extinction over time, dedicated efforts by enthusiasts and conservationists have preserved the breed's unique genetic heritage, ensuring its survival as a living testament to our equestrian history.
Beyond its practical applications, the Sorraia's timeless beauty and historical significance have inspired artists and captivated horse enthusiasts worldwide. As a symbol of cultural and natural heritage, the Sorraia horse continues to evoke a deep connection between humans and horses, honoring its ancestors and preserving a treasured part of our collective past.
Horse and Rider, Cypro-Classical, 5–4th c. BCE, MMA 74.51.1664
The horse is hollow and in the Kourion style, with a mold-made head to which the harness was added by hand. The body and legs may also be mold-made. The horse has long thick legs, a thick triangular neck, and a knot at the top of its head. The headstall of the bridle has a browband, frontlet, noseband, and cheekstraps.
The Arabian
The Arabian horse is one of the oldest and most esteemed breeds worldwide, originating in the Arabian Peninsula. It is celebrated for its distinctive head shape, elegant appearance, and high tail carriage, exuding regal charm and uniqueness. Throughout history, Arabian horses have been prized by ancient civilizations and Bedouin tribes for their endurance, resilience, and loyalty.
Notably, the Arabian's endurance capabilities are unparalleled, making it a top choice for long-distance riding and endurance competitions. Its ability to cover vast distances without tiring has earned it a reputation as the ultimate endurance horse. This breed's influence on other horse breeds is significant, having contributed to the development of various renowned breeds, enriching their agility, intelligence, and overall beauty.
Beyond their athletic prowess, Arabian horses are known for their intelligence and strong bond with their human companions. Their sensitivity and deep connections with owners have led to them being called "the horse of kings." Whether in equestrian sports, diverse disciplines like dressage, jumping, or as beloved companions, the Arabian horse continues to inspire and captivate horse enthusiasts worldwide. This breed's legacy is a testament to the enduring relationship between humans and horses, spanning centuries and cultures, and it remains an esteemed and cherished breed across the globe.