Notes

Marie Vermeulen Breedt’s large-scale painting, Horses in the Water, is a breathtaking exploration of movement, energy, and the ethereal beauty of these majestic creatures. The painting captures the spirit of photorealism while blending elements of magical realism, resulting in a dreamlike yet intensely lifelike depiction of horses in motion. The galloping figures seem to emerge from the mist, creating a sense of mystery and timelessness. This mist, which surrounds the horses, blurs the line between reality and the subconscious, suggesting that the creatures exist in a realm where the boundaries between the real and imagined are fluid.

Breedt’s lifelong passion for horses deeply informs her work. Since childhood, her love for these animals was unwavering - whenever her father asked what she wanted for her birthday, her answer was always a horse. She began riding lessons at twelve, but a tragic riding accident ended her time in the saddle. Though she never rode again, fate brought her back into the world of horses when she married a horse breeder and trainer specialising in thoroughbreds. Despite no longer riding, she remains deeply connected to these animals, frequently visiting stables and drawing inspiration from their power and grace.

In the present lot, Breedt’s personal connection to horses is palpable, imbuing the painting with a depth of emotion and meaning. For her, horses represent both strength and beauty, qualities that resonate throughout her work. The painting is not merely a representation of horses; it is an evocative exploration of their symbolic power, linking the artist’s personal history and love for these animals with the timeless beauty they embody.