Het stervende paard 1652 - 1702

This etching, titled "The Dying Horse," was created by an anonymous artist. It presents a stark scene, likely intended to critique the social structures of its time. The skeletal horse, barely standing, alongside the carcass of another, speaks volumes about hardship. This image, made in the Netherlands, reflects the turbulent times of war and economic instability. The work may serve as an allegory for the suffering of the common people, particularly the peasantry, who were often the most vulnerable during times of conflict and economic downturn. To fully appreciate the power of this image, we need to delve into the history of the era. Scrutinizing archival documents and historical accounts would give us a better understanding of the social and institutional contexts that shaped its creation and meaning. Art is always a product of its time.