Reis van de kunstenaar naar Dresden in juni 1789 1795

This etching, made in 1789 by Daniel Nikolaus Chodowiecki, captures a journey to Dresden. Dominating the scene, we see horses and their riders. The horse, throughout history, has been a potent symbol, embodying power, freedom, and nobility. The raised whip in the foremost rider's hand echoes gestures found in ancient Roman equestrian statues, symbolizing command and control. Yet, here, it’s tempered, almost playful, hinting at the shifting social dynamics of the late 18th century. Compare this with depictions of Alexander the Great on horseback, where the raised arm signifies triumph and divine right. Over time, the gesture evolves, reflecting changing values and power structures. There's a psychological tension, too. The horse, a creature of instinct and energy, is juxtaposed with the riders, striving for control. This interplay mirrors our own internal conflicts, the eternal struggle between reason and impulse, forever imprinted in our collective memory. The horse evokes feelings of both freedom and restraint, engaging us on a subconscious level. Note how the journey, a recurring motif in art, implies transformation. We witness this symbol's cyclical progression—reappearing, evolving, and acquiring new meanings across time.