Paarden voor een dal before 1897

Walter Dwight Wilcox captured this landscape scene with horses, sometime before 1949, using an engraving. Consider the horse: it is not merely an animal but a carrier of burdens, a symbol of movement and endurance. Its presence here, set against the backdrop of a challenging mountain pass, evokes a sense of struggle and perseverance. Horses have appeared in art across cultures, from the steeds of ancient Greek heroes to the companions of nomadic tribes. Think, for instance, of the recurring motif of the horse in ancient battle scenes or Renaissance equestrian portraits. In each, the horse carries a similar weight of meaning—a symbol of power, movement, and vitality. Here, the horse embodies the spirit of adventure. The stark landscape engages viewers on a deep, subconscious level, evoking feelings tied to journeys, challenges, and the primal connection between humans and the natural world. This ancient symbol has been used in different contexts, constantly evolving, and reflecting the changing values and concerns of each new age.