“Notions Possibilités” Study of Horse Gaits and Motion by Robert Ladou

Title: Original French Abstract Study or a Rearing Horse and Figure Artist: Robert Ladou (French, 1929-2014) Medium: Pen on paper Size: 6.25 (Height) x 4.5 (Width) Signed: No Condition: Good, some light surface wear consistent with age Provenance: From the artist’s estate Description: This study by Robert Ladou illustrates various horse gaits and movements, with a focus on the dynamics of weight-bearing, endurance, and speed. Ladou’s use of minimalist shapes conveys the essential motions of horses in different states of activity. The annotations, written in French, highlight important aspects of horse motion such as “poids tracté” (pulled weight), “endurance” (endurance), and “vitesse” (speed), making this piece both artistic and educational. This unique piece is a fine example of Ladou’s fascination with equine anatomy and his meticulous approach to capturing movement.