Study for an Equestrian Monument

Solon H. Borglum's ink and watercolor sketch captures a mounted figure in dynamic motion, the horse's body extended in a powerful stride while the rider leans back, one arm raised. The composition employs bold gestural lines and tonal washes to convey movement and weight. Borglum (1868–1922), brother of the renowned Mount Rushmore sculptor Gutzon Borglum, specialized in public sculpture. This study demonstrates the artist's approach to monumental equestrian commissions, translating quick observational drawing into three-dimensional form. Such preliminary sketches were essential to the public art tradition of the early twentieth century, capturing the narrative and physical drama intended for large-scale bronze or stone installations.