Eerste paardrijles 1811 - 1866

Victor Adam created this print called ‘Eerste paardrijles’ – or ‘First Riding Lesson’ – sometime in the first half of the 19th century. During this period, riding lessons were not just about learning a skill; they were deeply intertwined with social status and gender roles. The print shows a young girl, likely from an aristocratic background, receiving her first riding lesson. She is flanked by an adult woman, probably her governess or mother, and an officer who seems to be her instructor. Notice how the woman is attentively holding the reins, while the officer stands by, exuding authority with his military bearing. The presence of a military figure might hint at the connections between equestrian skills and military prowess, which were highly valued in that era. This scene encapsulates a moment where gender, class, and power intersect, all mediated through the act of learning to ride. It speaks volumes about the societal expectations placed on young women of privilege. The girl isn’t just learning to control a horse; she’s also learning to navigate her social role. The lesson speaks to the emotional dimensions of upbringing, where privilege and discipline often walk hand in hand.