Fr 033 In From the Night Herd FredericRemington sqs Frederick Remington (1861-1909)

The drawing presents a scene of pastoral solitude and controlled power. Here we observe a man on horseback, positioned centrally within the composition. The rider is clad in practical attire – a checkered shirt, trousers tucked into boots, and a wide-brimmed hat shading his face. His posture suggests alertness; he holds reins firmly while glancing towards the left side of the frame. A firearm is visible at his hip, hinting at a potential need for defense or control within this environment.
The horse itself dominates much of the visual space. It’s rendered with considerable detail, emphasizing its musculature and the tack it carries. The animal appears to be in motion, though restrained by the riders guidance. A herd of cattle is visible in the background, loosely grouped and seemingly under observation or being managed from a distance.
The landscape is characterized by rolling hills and sparse vegetation, rendered through meticulous cross-hatching that creates a sense of depth and texture. The monochromatic palette contributes to an atmosphere of quietude and realism. Light appears to emanate from above, casting shadows that define the forms and enhance the three-dimensionality of the figures.
Subtly, the drawing explores themes of dominion over nature and the individual’s relationship with the land. The riders control over the horse, and by extension, the cattle in the distance, speaks to a system of power and responsibility. There is an implied narrative – perhaps the man is returning from tending the herd, or surveying his domain. The absence of other human figures reinforces the sense of isolation and self-reliance characteristic of frontier life. The meticulous detail applied to both the rider and the horse suggests respect for their roles within this rural setting, while also hinting at a certain stoicism and resilience required to thrive in such an environment.