George Stubbs – Assheton, first Viscount Curzon, and his mare, Maria Part 2 Louvre

The composition presents a gentleman accompanied by a horse in what appears to be a rural setting. The man stands slightly left of center, facing forward with a direct gaze that establishes a connection with the viewer. He is dressed in formal attire – a cream-colored coat, breeches, and riding boots – indicative of his social standing. A tricorn hat adorns his head, and he holds a riding crop loosely in his right hand, suggesting readiness for equestrian activity.
The horse occupies the majority of the pictorial space to the right of the man. It is depicted in profile, displaying its muscular build and refined conformation. The animal’s dark coat contrasts with the lighter tones of the gentlemans clothing, drawing immediate attention to it. A saddle and bridle are visible, confirming its status as a riding horse rather than a working animal.
The background establishes a sense of place through loosely rendered foliage and a distant landscape. Trees frame the scene on the left, while a suggestion of buildings can be discerned in the middle distance, hinting at an estate or manor house. The sky is overcast, contributing to a muted color palette that emphasizes the figures and their immediate surroundings.
The painting’s subtexts revolve around themes of status, ownership, and the relationship between man and animal. The gentlemans formal attire and confident posture convey his position within the social hierarchy. His presence alongside the horse signifies not merely companionship but also possession – a demonstration of wealth and power through the display of a prized animal. The meticulous rendering of the horse’s anatomy underscores its value, elevating it beyond mere utility to an object of aesthetic appreciation.
The subdued lighting and restrained color scheme contribute to a sense of quiet dignity and understated elegance. This is not a scene of action or exuberance but rather one of controlled display, reinforcing the gentlemans authority and his connection to the land he represents. The overall effect is one of carefully constructed portraiture designed to convey social standing and personal character through the symbolic representation of both man and beast.