Eriksen, Virgilius. Catherine II on horseback Hermitage ~ part 13

The composition presents a figure seated atop a large white horse, positioned slightly off-center within the frame. The individual is clad in elaborate military attire – a green coat adorned with gold embellishments, breeches, and tall boots – and wears a tricorne hat perched jauntily on their head. A sword is held firmly in the right hand, pointed downwards, suggesting authority and readiness.
The horse itself dominates much of the visual space; its pale coloration contrasts sharply with the darker foliage visible behind it. The animal’s musculature is rendered with considerable detail, conveying a sense of power and controlled energy. A richly decorated saddle blanket adds another layer of opulence to the scene.
Behind the rider and horse, the landscape recedes into a hazy distance. A scattering of trees frames the left side of the composition, while a suggestion of buildings or structures can be discerned on the horizon line, though they remain indistinct. The sky is filled with dramatic clouds, painted in shades of grey and yellow that contribute to an overall atmosphere of grandeur and perhaps even impending action.
The artist’s choice of color palette – the vibrant green of the clothing against the white horse and muted background – draws immediate attention to the central figure. The pose itself, while seemingly relaxed, communicates a sense of command and self-assurance. The riders gaze is directed slightly away from the viewer, implying an engagement with something beyond the confines of the canvas.
Subtly, the work seems to be constructing a narrative of power and dominion. The equestrian motif – a ruler depicted on horseback – is a long-standing visual trope associated with leadership and military strength. The elaborate costume reinforces this impression, suggesting not merely an individual but a representative of authority and imperial might. The landscape’s indistinctness further emphasizes the figures prominence, isolating them within a symbolic space that underscores their elevated status.