Paard en twee honden 1840 - 1880

Johannes Tavenraat sketched this ‘Horse and Two Dogs’ with pen in the early 19th century. Here, the horse, depicted with striking ribs, stands as a symbol of raw energy and vitality. The dogs in the foreground, look up to it, perhaps signifying loyalty and domestication in contrast to the untamed spirit of the horse. This image speaks to a long tradition of animal symbology. The horse, particularly, appears throughout history—from the steeds of classical gods to the warhorses of medieval knights, always embodying power and freedom. The skeletal depiction is a motif of mortality, much like the 'vanitas' symbols, reminding us of life's fleeting nature. Consider how these symbols persist and evolve. The horse, once a symbol of raw masculine power, has often been recontextualized in modern times to represent freedom from societal constraints. It is a powerful symbol, engaging us on a subconscious level. The depiction of animals tap into primal instincts and collective memories. These representations transcend time.