Unknown artist

Hussar on a White Horse, 18^th century

oil on canvas, 43x55 cm; unmarked
Fine Arts Collection, Inv. No.: 74.108.

The horse and its rider is a common theme in the world of fine arts. The image of the horse is combination of unbridled, primal power and prideful beauty, whereas the soldier on horseback represents a figure that is full of bravado and ready for action.
Light cavalry was adopted in Hungary during the 15^th century in the form of the hussars. These Hungarian horseback riding soldiers were regularly featured on illustrations during both the Ottoman-Hungarian wars and the Hungarian Revolution and War of Independence against the Habsburg. Because of the printed press, the image of the hussar was known widespread across Hungary and it became one of the country’s national symbols by the mid-19^th century.
This painting resembles a portrait, however it depicts the hussar in a battle with his sword drawn. His military expertise is shown by the medal on his chest. He wears a busby on his head and short boots with riding spurs. His uniform consists of dolman jacket heavily decorated with golden braids, matching trousers and a pelisse over-jacket which hangs loosely on his shoulder. The mood of a bloody battlefield is further accentuated by the otherwise barren landscape, the red glow of the sky and the galloping figures of other horseback riders in the background.
This provincial style painting presumably depicts an actual person, whose identity, along with the origin of the image had faded into history. The painting was acquired by the museum through purchase in 1974.
Andrea Pirint