Artwork

Men Shoeing a Horse

Men Shoeing a Horse, by Walter Shirlaw, graphite, 1801
Men Shoeing a Horse, by Walter Shirlaw, graphite, 1801

Men Shoeing a Horse is a graphite drawing by the Impressionist artist Walter Shirlaw. It dates from 1801 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:lower right in graphite: W. Shirlaw

About this work

Overview

Men Shoeing a Horse is a graphite drawing on wove paper by Walter Shirlaw, created in 1801. The work captures a scene of everyday rural life.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a man shoeing a horse, assisted by another figure, possibly a child, with a cow in the background and dogs on the ground. The scene conveys a sense of ordinary, unidealized life.

Technique & Style

Executed in a loose and rapid style, the drawing emphasizes simplicity and immediacy over detailed finish. The artist's focus on capturing a moment reflects a straightforward, observational approach.

Context

The work aligns with a broader artistic interest in depicting everyday life and activities, characteristic of certain artistic movements of the time.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Walter Shirlaw

Artist

Walter Shirlaw

American, Paisley, Scotland 1838–1909 Madrid

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Men Shoeing a Horse?

Men Shoeing a Horse was painted by Walter Shirlaw in 1801.

Where can I see Men Shoeing a Horse?

Men Shoeing a Horse is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Men Shoeing a Horse?

Men Shoeing a Horse is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of Men Shoeing a Horse?

Museum-quality prints of Men Shoeing a Horse are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.