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The Rocking Horse, c. 1793 (mezzotint)
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The Rocking Horse, c. 1793 (mezzotint)
FIT156938 The Rocking Horse, c.1793 (mezzotint) by Ward, James (1769-1859); Fitzwilliam Museum, University of Cambridge, UK; eFitzwilliam Museum; English, out of copyright
Media ID 22784178
© Fitzwilliam Museum / Bridgeman Images
Envy Gate Rich Social Inequality Spaniel Spoilt
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The Rocking Horse, c. 1793 - A Glimpse into the World of Social Inequality
EDITORS COMMENTS
. This mezzotint print by James Ward takes us back to 18th-century Britain, offering a poignant commentary on the stark class differences that defined society at the time. The scene depicts a young girl playing with her beloved rocking horse while her loyal spaniel watches attentively by her side. Behind an ornate gate, we see a boy from a less privileged background observing them with envy. The image serves as a powerful reminder of the social inequality that plagued British society during this era. The rich and privileged children are engrossed in their lavish toys and leisurely activities, seemingly oblivious to the world outside their gilded gates. Meanwhile, those less fortunate can only dream of such luxuries. Ward's masterful engraving skillfully captures not only the physical contrast between these two worlds but also highlights the emotional disparity between them. The longing gaze of the boy reflects his yearning for what he cannot have, while emphasizing how wealth and privilege shape one's childhood experiences. "The Rocking Horse" invites viewers to reflect upon themes of envy, spoilt upbringing, and societal divisions that continue to resonate today. It serves as a timeless reminder that access to resources and opportunities greatly influences our lives from an early age – be it through material possessions or educational advantages.
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