Paard uit Calabrië 1577 - 1581

Curator: This engraving, entitled "Paard uit Calabrië," which translates to "Horse from Calabria," was created between 1577 and 1581 by Hendrick Goltzius. It's currently held here at the Rijksmuseum. Editor: My first impression? Powerful. The horse just radiates a raw, almost volcanic energy, despite the print’s delicate lines. Curator: That volcanic read is interesting, particularly when we consider how Goltzius has rendered the landscape. Notice the almost theatrical backdrop? The controlled chaos of the clouds, for example. Editor: Right! It’s not just a portrait of a horse, it’s a drama unfolding. I see that Goltzius clearly wasn't just aiming for naturalism; it feels more like an idealized strength. A muscular animal bursting to step outside the landscape's boundary! Curator: Indeed. Consider how the meticulous engraving technique contributes to this. The contrast, the almost sculptural rendering of the horse's muscles...It's less about a lifelike depiction, and more a study in form, power, and perhaps even a touch of the symbolic. Editor: Like those Baroque horse statues in Roman palaces! Did the Calabria region of Italy have a rep for powerful war horses at the time, then? The posture and details—look at that glossy, braided mane!—tell me it’s a prized animal. Curator: Calabria was, in fact, renowned for its horses. This image possibly functions as both a portrait and a celebration of regional pride. The added text, some Latin verses at the bottom, suggests as much. Editor: What a great fusion of art and…well, propaganda isn’t quite the right word, but perhaps regional promotion. It's more than meets the eye. Thanks, Hendrick, for reminding us that even a horse can be a statement. Curator: Precisely. It also reflects on art's power, especially engravings at this time, to disseminate ideas about excellence, beauty, and regional identity across Europe. The horse's enduring appeal speaks volumes.