White Horse 

Rosa Bonheur painted “White Horse” during a time of shifting gender roles in the 19th century. She was a prominent female artist who achieved fame in a male-dominated art world. Bonheur gained recognition for her exceptional ability to capture the anatomy and spirit of animals. She often challenged societal expectations by wearing men's clothing to gain access to spaces, like farms and livestock markets, necessary for her art. This act was not just practical, but also a statement about gender and access. Her paintings often reflect a deep empathy and understanding of the natural world. Bonheur once said, “Since my infancy, my soul has become attached to the study of animals.” “White Horse” is more than a portrait; it’s a quiet assertion of Bonheur’s identity and passion in a world that sought to limit her. The painting also speaks to the universal themes of freedom, identity, and the power of challenging societal norms.