Het paard van Monsieur de Guille 1747 - 1812

Tethart Philip Christian Haag created 'The Horse of Monsieur de Guille' using pen and brush in gray and black. Haag, who was born in Kassel, Germany, moved to The Hague in 1750. His depictions of animals, especially horses, were in high demand in aristocratic circles. In the 18th century, during which this work was made, horses were not just modes of transport, but symbols of wealth and status. This drawing offers a glimpse into the world of the elite, where owning a fine horse was a statement of social standing. The artist's attention to detail captures the animal's physical presence, but there's also a sense of the horse’s inherent dignity. Haag invites us to consider the relationship between humans and animals, reflecting on how our perceptions and treatment of animals mirror our societal values. It’s a reminder of how deeply entwined our histories are, and how much we can learn about ourselves through observing the world around us.