Ziet, lieve kleinen ziet, kan u dit werk bekooren, / Dan word u deze prent uit vriendschap aangeboon, / De liefde voor de kunst, ô kleine! staat u schoon, / Uit een gering begin word grooter zaak gebooren 1791 - 1812

This print, made by Jacobus Thompson, presents a series of vignettes, each offering a glimpse into scenes of labor, leisure and travel. Dominant throughout these miniature dramas are horses, pulling carts, carriages, and even sleds. The horse, since antiquity, has been more than just a beast of burden, embodying notions of power, virility, and forward momentum. From the chariot races of ancient Rome to the equestrian portraits of Renaissance kings, the horse symbolizes humanity's ambition and control over the natural world. Consider the recurring motif of harnessed energy - these horses are directed, pulling towards a goal, be it trade or pleasure. This can be traced back to ancient Near Eastern depictions of royal hunts or triumphal processions. The horse-drawn carriage resurfaces in various guises throughout art history, each time reflecting the evolving social and technological landscapes. The powerful symbolism engages us on a subconscious level, stirring a deep, collective memory of our own desires for progress and mastery. It is this cyclical progression—from ancient symbol to modern representation—that reveals the enduring, evolving power of the image.