The horses of Gend en Loos Cornelis Noltee

The drawing presents a scene dominated by a cluster of horses and wagons positioned before what appears to be an arched gateway or tunnel entrance. The monochromatic palette contributes to a stark, almost documentary feel. Here we see several teams of horses, each harnessed to a wagon; the animals are rendered with a focus on their musculature and posture, suggesting exhaustion and labor. Their heads hang low, conveying a sense of weariness.
The wagons themselves appear utilitarian, lacking any decorative elements. They seem designed for transport, likely of goods or personnel. The arrangement is somewhat chaotic, implying an impromptu gathering rather than a formal procession. A sign above the gateway bears text that is partially obscured but seems to indicate a location or designation.
The artist’s use of line work is particularly noteworthy. Rapid, gestural strokes define the forms, creating a sense of immediacy and movement while also contributing to a slightly blurred quality. This technique avoids precise detail, instead emphasizing the overall impression of activity and scale. The composition directs attention towards the horses, positioning them as central figures within this scene of logistical effort.
Subtly, the drawing conveys an atmosphere of wartime or post-war hardship. The sheer number of animals involved in transport suggests a significant undertaking, likely related to military operations or relief efforts. The tired appearance of the horses and the functional nature of the wagons hint at the burdens borne by both animal and human alike. There is a quiet dignity in their labor, but also an underlying sense of strain and depletion. The obscured signage adds a layer of ambiguity, prompting reflection on the context and purpose behind this scene of relentless movement.