p hf bookplate027 #232 Harrison Fisher

The drawing presents a figure accompanied by a horse, rendered in a style suggestive of ink wash or charcoal sketching with subtle tonal variations. The composition is dominated by a vertical arrangement, emphasizing the height and stature of both the person and the animal. Here we see a man dressed in formal attire – a dark suit jacket over what appears to be a waistcoat, paired with trousers and sturdy boots – standing beside a horse that seems poised for movement. A scarf or shawl drapes loosely from his shoulders, adding an element of relaxed elegance to the otherwise structured clothing.
The artist has positioned the figure slightly off-center, allowing the horse’s form to occupy a significant portion of the right side of the frame. The animal is depicted in profile, its head lowered as if grazing or pausing. Its musculature and posture convey a sense of restrained power. The mans gaze appears directed downwards, perhaps towards the ground or the horse itself, suggesting contemplation or quiet connection.
The background is largely undefined, with swirling lines creating an atmospheric effect that obscures any specific location. These gestural marks contribute to a feeling of fluidity and movement, contrasting with the more defined outlines of the figures. The artist’s use of line work is particularly noteworthy; it ranges from bold strokes defining the major forms to delicate hatching used to suggest shading and texture.
Subtly, theres an interplay between formality and informality at play. The man’s attire suggests a certain social standing or profession, yet his relaxed posture and the casual drape of the scarf imply a degree of personal freedom. This juxtaposition might hint at themes of societal expectations versus individual expression. The presence of the horse – a symbol often associated with nobility, travel, and untamed nature – could further reinforce this sense of duality. It’s possible to interpret the drawing as an exploration of identity within a structured environment, or perhaps a commentary on the relationship between humanity and the natural world.

The signature at the bottom right corner indicates authorship, though its legibility is limited.