IL GRAN CAVALLO. UN DIPINTO SINTESI DI UN'IDENTITÀ CULTURALE E DI UN TERRITORIO RICCO DI STORIA

Carl Borromàus Ruthart (attr.), 1630, Danzica - c. 1703, L'Aquila), Il Grande Cavallo, sec. XVII, seconda metà, olio su tela, cm 210 x 275 x 5, [Reggia di Caserta, inv. n. 20-W469-1-00029], © Ciro Faraldo.

The life-size painting The Great Horse depicts a young horse which breed is identified as "Napolitano". Though not confirmed as fact, I attribute the painting to the german painter Carl Borromàus Ruthart. The painting's provenance can also be attributed to the brainding evident on the hindquartes of the hourse. This symbol represents the convent Santissima Annunziata in the town of Sulmona. The painting dates back to no later than the 17th century. The work recaptures the rich tradition of the celebration of the horse. Throuhg time, as evidenced by the passion of owners and breeders alike, horses were often depicted alone and without their owners as a tribute to their beauty. Our painting The Great Horse was acquired by the Winistry of Culture for the Royal Palace of Carditello, through auction, in January 2020 at the Bonhams Auction House in London.