Equestrian Dressage Horse Print Original Handcolored Antique Engraving , 1743
€ 790
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Date
1743
Sheet size
43 × 56 cm (16.9 × 22.0 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-13626-3
Condition
Additions or alterations made to the original: Tape on the reverse along the edges for support and three inches on the lower split in the middle. Good condition apart from some light wrinkles along the vertical split in the middle. Later coloring on strong paper.
About this sheet
Text: "Le cheval étant sur son plan naturel, pour faire voir la plus parfaitte posture du Cavallier"
Translated: "The horse being in its natural position, to show the most perfect posture of the rider"
This copper engraving after Abraham van Diepenbeeck is in good condition, considering its age, displaying very minor foxing. This remarkable plate is part of 'A General System of Horsemanship in All Its Branches', William Cavendish's comprehensive work on equestrian dressage.
Cavendish, a prominent politician, soldier, and ardent Royalist, supported Charles I during the English Civil War. He established a prestigious riding school in Antwerp, where he trained Barbary horses acquired from Paris. In 1657, he published 'La Methode et Invention nouvelle de Dresser les Chevaux', a groundbreaking work introducing revolutionary equestrian training techniques. An English edition, 'A General System Of Horsemanship In All Its Branches', was published in 1743, showcasing exquisite illustrations of Cavendish demonstrating his expertise at his Antwerp ménage and various English estates such as Bolsover Castle and Welbeck Abbey.
