Masete de Normandie 1606 - 1689

Charles Errard le fils made this etching, Masete de Normandie, in the 17th century. Here, the prominent motif is the horse, a symbol deeply entwined with human history. The bond between man and horse is palpable, reflecting a relationship of utility, power, and even companionship. The horse's symbolic trajectory is fascinating. In antiquity, we see the horse associated with war, strength, and nobility, pulling chariots of gods and emperors alike. Yet, it also embodies freedom and wildness, untamed spirit. Consider the equestrian statues of Roman emperors – symbols of dominion – compared to the mythical Centaurs, creatures of instinct and primal energy. The act of drinking, too, carries weight. It’s a moment of vulnerability, of trust. The horse, lowering its guard to drink, echoes the human need for sustenance and vulnerability, a poignant reflection on our shared dependence on the natural world. This image stirs a primordial connection, inviting us to contemplate our long, complex relationship with these magnificent creatures.