In earlier days, when harrowing clay soils, a two- or three-horse team was chosen. Small plots of light sandy soil could be harrowed with a single horse or two-horse team. Choosing a four-horse team in this case has a special reason; the two lactating mares in the team stay in shape and their foals can gradually get used to the coming weaning time. Led by the foal mares, the span quickens its pace with every walk towards the farm. The foals left at the stable whinny hoarsely; their protective mother is out of the picture and they cannot drink. As with most mammals, the reciprocal love between mother and young is strong in horses; mares may rebel or at least become very agitated if one separates them from their foal. Several times I witnessed this, moreover, farmers shared their experience with me.
1. Every week, a farmer (mixed farm) with his Gelderlander mare brought a batch of eggs from Wijk bij Duurstede to a wholesaler in Utrecht, a 30-kilometre trip that was mostly done at a trot. On the way there, the mare was able to cover several kilometres at a walk to catch her breath. On the way back, however, she did not allow herself to be directed; so cool-headed among the busy city traffic, she was so reluctant when it came to the imposed walking (to see her foal again as soon as possible);
Groningen-based painter, illustrator and author Wim Romijn enjoys international fame as a horse painter. He also paints farm animals and wildlife. His designs and illustrations served to make greetings cards, calendars, posters, embroidery kits, portfolios and giclées.
In the picture books Het Werkpaard (1990), the..
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