Brun, Charles Le (French, 1619-1690) 1 French artists

The drawing presents a dynamic scene dominated by powerful equine figures and human forms engaged in what appears to be a tumultuous procession or chariot race. Here we see four horses, rendered with considerable anatomical detail and expressive energy, pulling a vehicle occupied by two male figures. The foremost horse rears dramatically, its head thrown back in apparent exertion or alarm, while the others strain forward, their musculature clearly defined through rapid hatching and cross-hatching techniques.
The human figures are less precisely delineated but convey a sense of urgency and control. One figure, positioned at the front, wears a helmet and appears to be guiding the horses with a spear or staff. The second man, situated further back within the vehicle, is depicted in profile, his posture suggesting active participation in the unfolding action.
The composition is characterized by a strong diagonal thrust, created by the forward momentum of the horses and the angled placement of the chariot. This creates an immediate sense of movement and instability. A grid system is faintly visible across the surface of the drawing, likely indicating preliminary compositional studies or guidelines used during its creation. The artist employed a limited tonal range, primarily relying on variations in brown ink to define form and create depth.
Subtleties within the work suggest more than just a straightforward depiction of a race or procession. The rearing horse introduces an element of chaos and potential danger, hinting at forces beyond human control. The presence of classical attire – the helmeted figure’s armor – implies a mythological context, perhaps referencing a narrative involving divine intervention or heroic struggle. The grid overlay, while functional in its purpose, also contributes to the drawings intellectual character, suggesting a deliberate exploration of spatial relationships and compositional balance. Overall, the work conveys a sense of controlled energy and dramatic tension, indicative of an artist engaged with both technical skill and complex thematic concerns.