FLEMISH mid seventeenth century After Jansz Abraham van Diepenbeeck MГ©thode et invention nouvelle de dresser les chevaux Plate 23 Page 132 33073 1765 часть 2 -- European art Европейская живопись

The composition presents a sequence of equestrian training exercises, meticulously documented and presented within a rectangular frame. The scene unfolds against a backdrop of aged parchment, lending it a sense of historical significance and instructional purpose. Six distinct vignettes are arranged across the canvas, each depicting a specific maneuver involving horses and their handlers.
Here we see men in period attire – identifiable by their breeches, coats, and tricorn hats – engaged in various stages of training. The figures are rendered with careful attention to detail, particularly regarding their clothing and posture, suggesting an emphasis on proper form and technique. The horses themselves are depicted with a degree of realism, showcasing their musculature and the subtle nuances of their behavior under instruction.
A central element recurring throughout the sequence is a tall pole or staff, likely used as a guide for the horses during training. It serves as a visual anchor, connecting the individual scenes and reinforcing the methodical nature of the process being demonstrated. The handlers utilize ropes and reins to control the animals, guiding them through the prescribed movements.
The lighting in each vignette is consistent, illuminating the figures and horses with a warm glow that emphasizes their forms and textures. This creates a sense of clarity and allows for detailed observation of the training techniques. The color palette is dominated by earthy tones – browns, tans, and ochres – which contribute to the overall feeling of antiquity and practicality.
Subtly embedded within this instructional depiction are elements suggesting social hierarchy. The handlers appear to be individuals of some standing, their attire indicating a level of respectability and perhaps even authority. This implies that equestrian training was not merely a practical skill but also a marker of status and refinement. The meticulous documentation, including the accompanying text labels in French, further reinforces this notion – suggesting an audience interested in acquiring knowledge and demonstrating competence within a specific social sphere.
Ultimately, the work functions as more than just a visual guide; it offers a glimpse into the practices and values of a particular time period, revealing the importance placed on horsemanship and the structured approach to mastering a complex skill.