Figurative Panel Depicting a Lady on Horseback in a Hunting Scene – Late 17th Century / Early 18th Century
Fragment of a Portuguese tile panel, dating from the turn of the 17th to the 18th century, executed in cobalt blue on a white background, during a period when this color scheme was becoming established in Portuguese tile art. The composition depicts a woman on horseback, seated sideways, in accordance with the practice of women’s horseback riding known as riding “à l’amazone.”. The figure is depicted wearing hunting attire, including a hat, a scarf draped over the shoulders, and high-heeled shoes, and is holding a whip used to guide the dogs. At the bottom, a dog is shown chasing a cloven-hoofed animal, possibly a deer, integrating the depiction into a hunting scene. Beyond its artistic merit, the piece serves as an iconographic record of the social history and customs of the Portuguese aristocracy, particularly significant for its depiction of a woman engaged in an activity associated with courtly culture. The details of the clothing, accessories, and equestrian posture provide insights into the attire and leisure activities of elite women at the turn of the 18th century.
Are you interested in this product?