The Riding School
Original title: The Riding School
kurzbeschreibung
Unlike many contemporary equestrian pictures, Franz Marc's 1913 woodcut 'Die Reitschule' does not rely on a calm pose but on movement through space. Several riders and horses appear in a riding hall, entirely in black and white. At the front, a rider with a sword leads the group.
Description
In the foreground, a rider holds a sword and steers his horse mid-motion. Behind him, more riders on horseback come into view, also in motion. Wooden beams and supports divide the hall, and riding lanes are marked on the ground. Strong, clear lines carry the energy and pace of the subject.
Context
The woodcut was made in 1913, when Marc was deeply engaged with Expressionism and the depiction of animals. Movement and dynamism particularly occupied him, which is reflected in this print. Before the First World War, Marc was searching for a new visual language.
Impact
The striking lines and black-and-white contrasts feel immediate and powerful. Tension arises from the galloping horses and the riders' activity, making the intensity of riding palpable. The reduction to essentials heightens the expressive effect.
Technique
The print was taken from a woodblock that had been cut beforehand. This technique allows clear, strong lines and large areas of contrast that emphasize the movement. The block measures 27 x 29 cm, a compact but effective format.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)