Mammals · 19th century
€ 900
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Good antique condition with age-related toning, minor foxing, and light surface wear consistent with age and handling. The colors remain attractive and the sheet retains strong decorative appeal.
Het Geldersche Paard Antique Horse Chromolithograph by Otto Eerelman, 1898
This beautiful antique chromolithograph depicts the celebrated Geldersche paard, or Gelderland horse, one of the most elegant and historically important Dutch horse breeds. The composition was created after a painting by the renowned Dutch animal painter Otto Eerelman and published in 1898 as part of the prestigious portfolio Paardenrassen Kunstalbum, a richly illustrated series dedicated to horse breeds from around the world.
The horse is shown standing proudly in an open Dutch landscape, its chestnut coat rendered with warm tonal depth and subtle highlights. Decorative yellow ribbons woven into the mane and tail emphasize the ceremonial and prestigious character of the breed, reflecting the importance of the Gelderland horse in Dutch agricultural and carriage traditions during the late 19th century. Eerelman’s exceptional understanding of equine anatomy and posture gives the animal both dignity and realism, qualities that made his horse portraits highly admired in his own time and continue to appeal strongly to collectors today.
The Gelderland horse originated in the province of Gelderland in the Netherlands and was bred as a versatile carriage and farm horse known for its elegance, endurance, and reliable temperament. By the late 19th century, these horses were especially valued by wealthy farmers and carriage owners, and they became symbolic of refined Dutch rural culture. This print therefore represents not only an attractive equestrian image, but also an important document of Dutch breeding history.
The chromolithographic printing technique captures the softness and painterly atmosphere of Eerelman’s original work beautifully. The muted landscape and pale sky provide an understated backdrop that allows the rich chestnut tones of the horse to dominate the composition. The decorative simplicity and balanced proportions make the print particularly suitable for both traditional country interiors and modern equestrian-inspired spaces.
This print would frame exceptionally well in a dark walnut, oak, or black frame with an ivory mat, complementing the warm earthy tones of the horse and landscape. It would make an excellent addition to an equestrian collection, a Dutch historical interior, or a refined library or study.
Condition: Good antique condition with age-related toning, minor foxing, and light surface wear consistent with age and handling. The colors remain attractive and the sheet retains strong decorative appeal.
The prints are original antique chromolithographs, not reproductions. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The pieces are sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale.
Technique: Chromolithograph
Maker: Otto Eerelman, Dutch, 1839–1926
