Steigerend paard 1666 - 1717

This is ‘Steigerend paard’ by Dirk Maas, an engraving held at the Rijksmuseum. The piece captures a horse rearing up, its front hooves raised, a rider composedly holding the reins. The interplay of light and shadow is striking, giving a sense of dynamic movement to the scene. The composition uses the verticality of the horse’s pose. Maas challenges the conventional equestrian portrait by focusing on a moment of tension and control. This is not a static display of power but a study in controlled energy. The background is softly rendered, suggesting a landscape, but the emphasis remains firmly on the horse and rider, pushing them into the foreground. Through his expert handling of engraving techniques, Maas transforms a conventional subject into a vibrant exploration of form and movement, inviting viewers to reconsider traditional representations of power and grace.