Eqvile Ioannis Avstriaci Caroli V 16th-17th century

Curator: This is Hieronymus Wierix's "Eqvile Ioannis Avstriaci Caroli V," made sometime between 1553 and 1619. The engraving showcases a magnificent stallion. Editor: The horse’s musculature is striking, almost hyper-realistic, and its pose—rearing up like that—it exudes power. Curator: Wierix was known for his technical skill as an engraver, and this piece exemplifies that. Consider the socio-political context: these images of powerful horses were often associated with the aristocracy. Editor: The lines are so clean, creating a range of tones that give shape and volume. I’m drawn to the way the light catches the horse’s flank. Curator: The printing process itself, the labor involved in creating these images, ensured their distribution throughout society. Editor: The composition is quite simple, yet dynamic. There’s a real sense of movement and vitality. Curator: Absolutely. It’s fascinating to consider how this image might have functioned within the broader economy of image production at the time. Editor: Seeing it in that light offers a new perspective on the symbolism.