Elf voorstellingen van menselijk tijdverdrijf 1833 - 1837

This lithograph by Victor Adam captures scenes of leisure activities. The horse, a central motif here, appears multiple times across the composition. It is not merely an animal, but a symbol laden with cultural meaning. Think of the horse as a potent symbol across cultures, from classical antiquity to the Renaissance. In ancient Greece, horses were associated with wealth and power, often depicted pulling the chariots of gods and heroes. This association continues through the ages, reappearing in Renaissance art where equestrian portraits of rulers became statements of dominance and control. The act of riding itself becomes symbolic, representing man's mastery over nature and his drive for conquest. We see how the horse continues to fascinate and inspire, tapping into our collective memory and subconscious desires for power and freedom. Each era refashions these symbols to reflect its own values, engaging viewers in a silent dialogue that spans centuries.