Riding School

Art Historical Context

In the intimate drawing *Riding School*, Dutch artist Pieter van Laer captures a lively equestrian scene with black and white chalk on blue laid paper. Dated undated (n.d.) and measuring just 158 × 23.8 cm, this modest sheet from the Art Institute of Chicago's Prints and Drawings collection exemplifies van Laer's skill in rendering dynamic figures and animals. Known as "Il Bamboccio" (the Little Child) for his small-scale, humorous depictions of everyday Italian life, van Laer (1595–1642) was a key figure in the Bamboccianti group, blending Dutch realism with Roman Baroque flair during the 17th century. The choice of blue laid paper—a favored 17th-century support—enhances the drawing's dramatic chiaroscuro effects. White chalk highlights suggest sunlight glinting off horses and riders, while black chalk defines muscular forms and bustling activity in what appears to be a training ground. Though classified under charcoal in some records, the chalk medium allowed van Laer fluid, expressive lines ideal for studies that informed his larger oil paintings of peasants, markets, and stables. This work offers a window into Golden Age Europe's fascination with rustic leisure, reflecting van Laer's years in Rome where he elevated "low-life" subjects to artistic heights. Visitors will appreciate its spontaneity, a testament to the preparatory genius behind his enduring genre scenes.