Goetz van Berlichingen's Horse 1842

'Goetz van Berlichingen's Horse' is a pen and brown ink drawing by Eugène Delacroix, currently residing at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Delacroix was a leading figure in the Romantic movement, which surfaced as a reaction against the Enlightenment’s emphasis on reason. This drawing reflects the Romantic interest in medieval subjects and nationalism, capturing the essence of historical drama and the valorization of national heroes. It references the rebellious knight Goetz van Berlichingen, a symbol of German defiance and individualism during a time of fragmented national identity. This drawing is more than just a historical depiction. It encapsulates the emotional and personal experiences tied to national identity and pride. Delacroix departs from traditional, idealized representations. The horse, burdened and weary, perhaps mirrors the weight of history and the struggles of its time. He develops a narrative of resilience through the lens of Romanticism. It emphasizes how societal issues of identity and nationalism are deeply intertwined with personal and emotional dimensions.