The Tale of the Barb Horse: A Journey Through Time
If horses could speak, perhaps they would share captivating stories of ancient times. These noble creatures, steadfast companions in war and contributors to the rise of civilizations, might reveal truths about our shared history—or perhaps, like us, they too would enjoy spinning tales of make-believe.
This drawing captures the fine-looking Barb, adorned in traditional horse tack, ready for battle. Originating from the Barbary Region, now modern Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco, and Libya, the Barb has a rich heritage. When the Arabs arrived, many believed that Barbs interbred with Arabian horses, creating a lineage steeped in strength and grace. This illustration is inspired by Jane Kidd's book, 'The Horse: The Complete Guide to Horse Breeds and Breeding.'
Media: Graphite Pencil on paper
Characters
Lila: A curious and artistic young girl who grew up near the rainforest, fascinated by the majestic horses and their deep connection with humans.
Mr. Thompson: A wise, elderly man who owns a library filled with books about history and horses, including Jane Kidd's works.
Nadia: Lila's friend from Tunisia, who shares stories about her country's rich equestrian heritage.
The Story
Lila, a spirited girl who spent her childhood exploring the lush rainforests near her home, always found herself drawn to the majestic horses. While the vibrant wildlife of the rainforest kept her entertained, it was the horses—those loyal companions of humans—that truly captivated her heart. She marveled at how these noble creatures died in battles, toiled on farms, and formed unbreakable bonds with their human counterparts.
One day, while browsing through Mr. Thompson's extensive library, Lila stumbled upon a beautifully illustrated book, 'The Horse: The Complete Guide to Horse Breeds and Breeding' by Jane Kidd. Enthralled by the detailed descriptions and stunning illustrations, she came across the chapter on the Barb horse. With its proud stance and traditional tack, the Barb seemed to leap off the page, ready for battle.
Inspired, Lila decided to create her own drawing of the Barb, using her beloved Derwent Soft Drawing Pencils and her Canson Creative Sketch Journal. As she sketched, she imagined the stories the Barb might tell if it could speak—tales of ancient battles, long journeys across deserts, and the timeless bond between horse and rider.
Materials:
- Graphite Pencils (various grades)
- Blender
- Creative Sketch Journal
Steps:
1. Draw a soft sketch of the horse using light strokes.
2. Build up depth with thin layers of graphite for smoother blending.
3. Use the blender pencil to achieve a seamless finish if necessary.
As she drew, Lila thought about how horses had always played a significant role in human history. From noble steeds to beasts of burden, they brought her closer to understanding the essence of humanity. She cherished stories of horses and humans, preferring them over tales of wild horses, though she respected their freedom.
"History is written on the horse's shoes."
"History is carved on the horse's hooves."
"History is etched in the horse's footsteps."
These expressions, Lila realized, underscored the profound impact horses have had on the course of history and the development of human civilization.
Lila's friend Nadia from Tunisia often shared stories of her country's rich equestrian heritage. Nadia told Lila how the Barb horses in Tunisia were celebrated for their endurance, strength, and loyalty. Hearing these stories deepened Lila's appreciation for the Barb horses and inspired her drawing even more.
With each stroke of her pencil, Lila felt a deeper connection to these magnificent animals. Her drawing was not just a depiction of the Barb but a tribute to all horses and their timeless bond with humans. Through her art, Lila hoped to keep their stories alive for generations to come.
Original Narration:
If the horses could speak, maybe they could tell us stories about ancient times. They were men's companions at war and helped us build civilizations. And possibly they will tell the truth about the history. Or they are just the same as us and like to tell make-believe stories.
This drawing captured the fine-looking Barb wearing traditional horse tack, ready for the battle. The Barb originally came from the Barbary Region, now modern Algeria, Morocco, and Libya. When the Arabs came, many believed they had crossed with the Arabian horses. This illustration is based on the book 'The Horse: The Complete Guide to Horse Breeds and Breeding' by Jane Kidd.
Media: pencil on paper
As a girl who grew up near the rainforest, I found that horses are one of the most fascinating animals. While other animals were busy in the rainforest, horses bound with humans as companions. They died in the battles and worked on the farms, and I realized how wonderful they are.
Horses. I love to draw them not just because of their mere beauty but also because of their tales. From noble steeds to beasts of burden, they brought me closer to humanity. Imagine if they could tell stories and write history.
I like horse stories with humans more than the stories of wild horses, although I'm happy with their freedom. I really like their connection with humans, and they helped humans build civilization.
"History is written on the horse's shoes."
"History is carved on the horse's hooves."
"History is etched in the horse's footsteps.
These expressions imply that horses have played an important role in the course of history and the development of human civilization.
A drawing for a friend from Algeria.