Artwork

A boy taking a horse to drink

A boy taking a horse to drink, by Dirk Stoop, 1659
A boy taking a horse to drink, by Dirk Stoop, 1659

A boy taking a horse to drink is a print by Dirk Stoop. It dates from 1659 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

A boy taking a horse to drink is a print by Dirck Stoop, created around 1659. It is part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a boy leading a horse through shallow water, with the horse lifting a hoof and the boy grasping its reins while looking back. Two horsemen ride across a rocky field in the background.

Technique & Style

The artist emphasized the boy's firm grip and the horse's sturdy legs, conveying a sense of energy. Simple lines capture the dynamic movement of the horse's mane and the water's ripples.

Artist & collection

Artist

Dirk Stoop

Dirk Stoop (c. 1618–1686) was a widely travelled painter and engraver of the Dutch Golden Age. Alternative versions of his name include Dirck Stoff, Theodorus (van der) Stoop, Thierry (the French version) and…

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.