#45599 Arnold Böcklin (1827-1901)

The composition presents a dynamic scene dominated by a rearing horse. The animal is centrally positioned and rendered in muted tones of grey and white, accentuated with elaborate red and patterned saddlecloths that draw immediate attention. Its posture conveys a sense of startled energy; the hooves are raised, suggesting an abrupt halt or a sudden reaction to something unseen. A rider, clad in what appears to be traditional attire, is perched precariously atop the horse, his form somewhat indistinct amidst the turmoil.
The setting is ambiguous, appearing as a hilly landscape under a dramatic sky. The horizon line is low, emphasizing the vastness of the fiery orange and red heavens that consume much of the upper portion of the canvas. Dark, undefined foliage occupies the right side of the painting, while to the left, a tangle of brush and scrub suggests an untamed environment. A solitary figure stands in the distance on a slight elevation, seemingly observing the unfolding event; their identity remains unclear, contributing to the overall sense of mystery.
The artist’s application of paint is loose and expressive, with visible brushstrokes that contribute to the feeling of movement and urgency. The lack of precise detail throughout the scene lends it an almost dreamlike quality.
Subtextually, the painting seems to explore themes of disruption and vulnerability. The rearing horse can be interpreted as a symbol of untamed power or perhaps a sudden interruption of order. The rider’s precarious position suggests a loss of control, while the distant figure hints at observation and potential judgment. The intense coloration of the sky evokes an atmosphere of foreboding or impending change. Overall, the work conveys a sense of unease and dramatic tension, leaving room for multiple interpretations regarding the narrative context.