Horse and The Spirit of The Knight

Konstantin is a Russian artist living in Macau and he has a particular fondness for horses. In the past, whenever we would talk about exhibition ideas, he would say he wished to erect a bronze horse statue in a public square. And in that way, everyone could have the opportunity to ride on horseback and experience an old yet new walk of life.

Now, years later, his “Horse Program” is being realized bit by bit. This exhibition is of a series of works describing the relationship between people and horses – it is an exhibition placed atop of sixteen-inch white porcelain plates.

On the surfaces of these small plates are heroic or historical figures on horseback, such as: Julius Caesar, Marcus Aurelius, Genghis Khan, Napoleon, etc. Not only did they radically take control of their own realities, they changed the fate of their countries and dramatically sculpted the history of this world. There is a saying which has been spread around Western Asia since the fourth century, “Let others do other sports, but the equestrian is always king!”

Konstantin’s superb drawing skill and deep knowledge of historical figures and events facilitated his work resulting in a vivid display of a king’s raw power. Some had served mightily at the throne and were immortalized in stone with worshipers at their feet. Others were wading through trials and fighting for their yet-to-exist revolution. My favorite work is the tribute to Temüjin that described a young king clad in an air of confidence as he rode an incredible stallion across the battlefield.

The exhibits were not all of royalty and heroics however. There were others characters, complicated characters, such as the lover of Napoleon, the defeated, even hardened gamblers whom Konstantin loved to portray. So what is the meaning of such contrast in characters and what is the relationship between them and the horses? Whether rich or poor, the noble horse will abide by their master’s wish. Be it the command to battle on the battlefield, climb forward along mountainous perils, wade through waters, endure heavy burdens, or to die without hesitation, a horse’s dedication is unrivaled. So much so to say that there is an alliance between man and horse.

We have always praised knightly etiquette and the spirit of man: humility, honor, altruism, valor, compassion, honesty, spirituality and justice. But truly, we should ask ourselves how much of these chivalrous capacities actually belong to our noble steeds.

As I write, I cannot help but think of Milan Kundera’s words: “Of course, Genesis was written by man, not a horse.” Well, this is true...

Finally, I sincerely hope that Konstantin’s dream of establishing a horse statue will come to fruition as soon as possible.

http://payingpatronperspective.blogspot.com/2011/07/review-eques-equitis-hand-painted.html