Spur 1935 - 1942

This is James Dwyer's "Spur", a drawing that captures a single, potent symbol of control and power. The spur, with its sharp projections, is not merely a tool but a forceful emblem of domination over both horse and, by extension, land and destiny. Consider the ancient Roman caltrop, a similar device used to impede and injure enemies. The spur echoes this primal need to assert dominance. The act of spurring is an assertion of will. It represents the imposition of human desire upon another being. This symbolism is evident in equestrian statues throughout history, where the rider's control over the horse signifies their command over civic life and society. The enduring presence of the spur is a testament to its potency as a symbol, evolving across cultures and epochs, yet retaining its core association with power, urging us to examine the psychological undercurrents of control and mastery.