1891 – Mare and Foal

“Mare and Foal” – by Harrison Weir, is a full page book plate image, taken from “Animals and their Young”, by Harland Coultas, and published by S.W.Partridge & Co, in 1891. This pleasant study, which is very pastoral in nature, is one that Harrison Weir would have been very familiar with. It portrays a horse and her foal, quite possibly the most favoured of all the domesticated animals and a great helpmate to man. But especially considered so during the Victorian era, when this illustration was produced, and when the only alternative form of mechanised land-based transport on offer, was by steam train. Horses were prized possessions, and generally regarded with dignity and respect. We view this seemingly calm domestic scene, through the eyes of the naturalist, interested in showing us a glimpse of the truth in nature. Likewise, it is reminiscent of a “still” shot, taken from a modern documentary, where we get to see a restful,tranquil moment, in the life of these peace-loving domesticated beauties.

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