Two studies of a saddled horse and of a horse with a boy astride; verso: Study of a bean plant 1597 - 1607

This sheet featuring studies of horses was created by Jacques de Gheyn II, a Dutch artist working in the late 16th and early 17th centuries. De Gheyn, positioned between the late Renaissance and early Baroque periods, was deeply influenced by the natural world and the humanist philosophies gaining traction at the time. Notice the distinct rendering of each horse: one saddled and still, the other bearing a rider. These details reflect the period’s fascination with equestrian culture, where the horse symbolized status, power, and the nobility of man. De Gheyn's choice to focus on the horse—not just as a symbol, but as a creature of labor and companionship—offers an intimate glimpse into the hierarchical relationships between humans and animals during this era. Consider the emotional depth conveyed through simple lines. The precise detail and delicate strokes highlight a curiosity about the natural world that invites us to reflect on the shared histories and experiences between species.