Pericles John Gilbert (1817-1897)

The drawing presents a scene of military action, dominated by two figures engaged in a dynamic interaction. A man on horseback occupies the visual foreground, positioned slightly off-center and angled towards the viewer. He is clad in classical armor – a helmet with elaborate cresting, breastplate, greaves, and a short tunic – and holds a spear poised as if ready to strike or gesture commandingly. The horse itself is rendered with considerable detail, its musculature evident and conveying a sense of restrained power. Its head is turned sharply, suggesting alertness and responsiveness to the unfolding action.
Beside the mounted figure stands another man, also in armor, who appears to be leading the horse. He holds reins or a similar guiding implement, maintaining control over the animal’s movement. His profile is clearly visible, revealing a stoic expression that contrasts with the more animated posture of his companion on horseback. The shield he carries displays an intricate design – likely symbolic – though its precise meaning remains ambiguous without further context.
The composition employs strong lines and shading to create depth and volume. The artist’s use of hatching and cross-hatching is particularly noticeable in defining the forms of both men and the horse, contributing to a sense of texture and realism. The limited tonal range, achieved through variations in line density, lends the drawing a somewhat austere quality.
Subtleties within the scene suggest a narrative beyond mere depiction of battle. The posture of the man on horseback implies leadership or authority; he is not merely participating but directing. The presence of the attendant – the figure leading the horse – highlights the hierarchical structure inherent in military command and underscores the dependence of even powerful individuals on support systems. The careful rendering of facial features, particularly the stoicism of the attendant, hints at a deeper psychological complexity within the scene. It is possible to interpret this as an exploration of duty, responsibility, or the burdens associated with leadership.