Paarden worden opgezadeld voor de race 1866

This print, by John Harris, shows horses being saddled for a race. It’s a scene teeming with anticipation, rendered through the traditional technique of etching and engraving, then enhanced with color. Notice how the fine lines of the engraving capture the textures of the horses' coats and the fabrics of the riders' attire. The process of creating such a print was labor-intensive, involving skilled artisans who meticulously transferred the artist's design onto a metal plate. Each line, each shadow, is a testament to the engraver's craft, a craft deeply intertwined with the social fabric of the time. The print offers a glimpse into the world of leisure and sport, but it also subtly reveals the underlying dynamics of class and labor. The riders, the owners, the grooms – all play their roles in this elaborate spectacle. By focusing on the material process of printmaking, we gain a deeper appreciation for the social and cultural context in which this artwork was created.