Paard met gareeltuig c. 1863

This sketch of a harnessed horse was created by Cornelis Springer, likely in preparation for a more finished painting. Springer used graphite pencil on paper, a readily available and relatively inexpensive material for sketching preliminary compositions or capturing fleeting observations. Notice how the pencil lines are light and quick, suggesting the artist was more interested in capturing the overall form and proportions of the horse and its harness, rather than intricate details. The sketch offers insight into the labor involved in urban life during Springer's time. Horses were essential for transportation and commerce, and their harnesses were carefully crafted to ensure efficiency and control. The sketch captures the working animal, reminding us of the essential role of animals in the 19th-century economy. By focusing on the materials, processes, and social context of this sketch, we can appreciate how even a simple drawing can reveal insights into the intersection of art, labor, and everyday life.