Hayman F Running Scared Francis Hayman (1708-1776)

The composition presents a landscape dominated by dense foliage in the foreground and a receding vista towards a distant body of water. Here we see a scene imbued with a palpable sense of unease and flight. A white horse, positioned centrally within the immediate foreground, is depicted mid-leap, its posture conveying an urgent, panicked movement. The animal’s elevated position on a rocky outcrop draws attention to its distress, while simultaneously isolating it from the surrounding environment.
The trees in the foreground are rendered with considerable detail, their gnarled trunks and thick branches creating a claustrophobic atmosphere that seems to press in upon the fleeing horse. Their dark coloration contrasts sharply with the lighter tones of the background, further emphasizing the animal’s isolation and vulnerability. The artist employed a technique of layering foliage, which contributes to the depth of the scene but also obscures any potential refuge for the horse.
Beyond the immediate foreground, the landscape opens up to reveal a valley containing a waterfall cascading into what appears to be a lake or bay. This distant view offers a suggestion of openness and tranquility, yet it remains inaccessible to the creature in distress. The muted colors and atmospheric perspective used to depict this background create a sense of distance and detachment, reinforcing the horse’s feeling of being trapped within its immediate surroundings.
The ground itself is uneven and strewn with rocks and debris, adding to the overall impression of instability and peril. A small animal – possibly a fox or hare – is visible near the base of one of the trees, seemingly startled by the commotion. This secondary figure subtly amplifies the sense of disruption and anxiety permeating the scene.
Subtly, the painting explores themes of vulnerability, fear, and the instinct for survival. The horse’s frantic flight can be interpreted as a metaphor for the human condition – a constant struggle against unseen threats or internal anxieties. The contrast between the oppressive foreground and the distant, unattainable tranquility suggests a yearning for peace that remains perpetually out of reach. The artists skillful use of light and shadow, combined with the dynamic composition, creates a powerful emotional resonance, inviting contemplation on themes of isolation and the primal drive to escape danger.