Wouwerman, Philips – De slaande schimmel, 1650-1668 Rijksmuseum: part 2

The composition presents a scene of controlled chaos centered around a rearing white horse. The artist has arranged figures and animals within a landscape that suggests a temporary halt during a hunt or procession. A group of riders, clad in varied attire ranging from formal coats to simpler garments, are positioned on the left side of the canvas. Their postures indicate both observation and participation in the unfolding event. One figure, partially obscured by foliage, appears to be gesturing towards the central action.
The focal point is undeniably the white horse, dramatically rearing with its forelegs suspended in mid-air. A rider struggles to maintain control, his body angled against the animals movement. The dynamism of this moment is emphasized by the swirling fabric and the implied force of the horse’s exertion. To the right of the rearing horse, another figure leads a dark grey horse forward, seemingly attempting to guide it through the commotion.
A prone man lies on the ground near the base of the central horse, surrounded by scattered fruit – likely apples or pears. His posture suggests either exhaustion or an accidental fall during the activity. A small dog stands nearby, adding another layer of detail and a touch of domesticity to the otherwise energetic scene.
The landscape itself is rendered with a muted palette, dominated by browns and greens. The sky occupies a significant portion of the upper register, displaying a dramatic interplay of light and shadow that contributes to the overall sense of movement and tension. A large tree on the left provides a visual anchor and frames the group of riders.
Subtleties within the painting suggest more than just a straightforward depiction of a hunt. The varied clothing of the figures hints at social distinctions, while the fallen man and scattered fruit introduce an element of vulnerability and potential misfortune. The controlled chaos – the apparent struggle for dominance between rider and horse – might be interpreted as a metaphor for broader themes of power, control, and the unpredictable nature of life itself. The overall impression is one of fleeting moments captured within a larger narrative, leaving room for interpretation regarding the specific context and purpose of this gathering.