Artwork

The "Piebald" Horse

The "Piebald" Horse, by Paulus Potter, oil, 1652
The "Piebald" Horse, by Paulus Potter, oil, 1652

The "Piebald" Horse is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Paulus Potter. It dates from 1652 and is held in the collection of the J. Paul Getty Museum.

About this work

Overview

The 'Piebald' Horse is a 1652 oil painting by Dutch artist Paulus Potter, created during the Dutch Golden Age. It is now part of the J. Paul Getty Museum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting features a piebald horse standing in a rural landscape, with a man on horseback and dogs in the distance. The horse is the central focus, with its head turned towards the viewer. The scene is set against a backdrop of trees, hills, and a cloudy sky.

Technique & Style

Potter's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and volume, drawing attention to the horse. The painting is characteristic of Potter's style, which often featured animals in rural landscapes depicted from a low perspective.

History & Provenance

Paulus Potter produced around 100 works during his brief career before dying at age 28. The 'Piebald' Horse is one of his notable works from 1652.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Paulus Potter

Artist

Paulus Potter

Paulus Potter (Dutch pronunciation: ; 20 November 1625 (baptised) – 17 January 1654 (buried)) was a Dutch painter who specialized in landscapes featuring animals, often from a low vantage point.

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