Pawing Horse Viewed from the Rear c. 16th century

Editor: So, this is "Pawing Horse Viewed from the Rear" by Antonio Tempesta. It's an etching, and I'm really struck by the energy, even though it's just a small black and white print. What jumps out at you when you look at it? Curator: Oh, it's all about controlled power, isn't it? Tempesta's cross-hatching gives the horse a muscularity that practically vibrates. The horse is pawing, yet it feels like it is contained, a coiled spring of potential. Does it make you wonder what the horse is thinking? Editor: Definitely! Is it impatience? Or something more rebellious? Curator: Maybe a bit of both! And that tail! It almost has a life of its own. It's fascinating how much dynamism Tempesta captures with such simple lines. I always see a bit of myself in this horse, wanting to break free, but also appreciating the beauty of restraint. Editor: I never thought about it that way. Seeing the power and the restraint together makes me appreciate the piece even more. Curator: Exactly! It's like a haiku in equine form – a whole story in a tiny frame.