Hoofd van een wit paard 1831 - 1904

Arnoud Schaepkens created this etching of a white horse head in the 19th century. The image, rendered in delicate lines, captures the animal's subdued gaze. Schaepkens, born in the Netherlands during a time of significant social change, was part of a shifting artistic landscape, where traditional representations of animals were being reconsidered alongside changing views of nature and rural life. The horse, often a symbol of power and labor, is presented here in quiet repose, challenging the conventional narratives of dominance. The use of etching allowed for a detailed yet intimate portrayal, perhaps reflecting a desire to capture not just the physical likeness but also something of the horse’s inner life. The soft shading around the horse's eye hints at a depth of emotion. Schaepkens' work invites us to consider the complex relationship between humans and animals.