Et hestehoved 1777 - 1831

Christian David Gebauer created this drawing, "Et hestehoved," using what appears to be a fine graphite pencil on paper. The composition centers on the horse’s head, cropped closely to emphasize its form, set against the stark, blank page. The artist's approach to line and shading is particularly striking. Note how short, controlled strokes meticulously build up the volume and musculature of the horse's head. The mane and neck are rendered with looser, more flowing lines, providing a textural contrast to the smoother areas of the face. The limited tonal range, from light grays to deep blacks, enhances the sculptural quality of the drawing. Gebauer skillfully employs chiaroscuro to define form and texture, reminiscent of classical drawing techniques. Yet, the absence of a background and the focus on a fragment isolates the subject. This highlights not only the skill in rendering but also invites consideration of the horse as a symbol—perhaps of strength, freedom, or even the sublime power of nature. "Et hestehoved" is not just a study of equine anatomy; it's an exploration of form and the very act of representation.