Borlase Cokayne as a Boy riding Sultana Thomas Smith of Derby (1715-1767)

The composition presents a youthful figure astride a dark horse in full gallop across a pastoral landscape. The artist has chosen a dynamic perspective, capturing the animal mid-stride with all four hooves suspended momentarily, conveying a sense of energy and movement. The rider, dressed in a pink coat, breeches, and a tricorn hat, holds reins and a riding crop, maintaining an upright posture despite the horse’s vigorous pace.
The horse itself is rendered with considerable detail; its dark coat contrasts sharply with the lighter tones of the saddle blanket, which features a geometric pattern. The artist has paid attention to anatomical accuracy, particularly in the depiction of the musculature and the articulation of the legs. White bandages adorn the lower legs, suggesting careful preparation for riding.
The background is less detailed but establishes a clear setting. A low horizon line reveals rolling hills dotted with grazing sheep, evoking an atmosphere of rural tranquility. A solitary wooden post stands prominently to the left, possibly marking a boundary or serving as a visual anchor within the expansive scene. The sky above is painted in muted blues and greys, suggesting overcast conditions that diffuse the light across the landscape.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of equestrian activity, several subtexts emerge. The youthful rider’s confident posture and control over the powerful animal suggest an early introduction to horsemanship – a skill often associated with privilege and social standing. The carefully detailed tack and the well-groomed appearance of both horse and rider further reinforce this impression of affluence and leisure.
The solitary nature of the scene, devoid of other human figures, contributes to a sense of isolation and introspection. It is not merely a depiction of riding; it seems to be an exploration of individual agency within a defined social context. The landscape itself, while idyllic, also hints at the vastness of the world beyond the immediate experience, potentially alluding to themes of ambition or future prospects. The dark color palette used for the horse and rider contrasts with the lighter tones of the background, creating a visual tension that may symbolize the challenges and responsibilities associated with social position.