Militairen te paard 1806 - 1830

Johan Noman created this print, titled ‘Militairen te paard’, or ‘Soldiers on Horseback,’ in the late 18th or early 19th century, a period of immense social and political change in Europe. This print offers a glimpse into the hierarchical structures of military power and its visual representation. The riders, identified by their ranks and nationalities, parade around the central image of a ‘Black Prussian Hussar,’ alluding to the complex web of alliances and conflicts that defined the era. The artist, by depicting these figures, engages with questions of identity, loyalty, and national pride. How did ordinary people relate to these symbols of military might? Did they inspire awe, fear, or perhaps a sense of security? The print invites us to consider the emotional impact of military imagery on the public imagination. It encourages reflection on how these representations shape our understanding of history, power, and identity.