The prediction of a pack of dry snow causes some people to overproduce adrenaline. When the time comes, the horse is harnessed and the sledge gets moving again after years of storage, it leads to euphoria.
There are a few clubs in Groningen and Friesland that organise competitions in arren (speed) on ice or through snow and, in ideal conditions, setting out outdoor treks. These treks are on snowy field roads and through natural areas.
The horse-drawn sleigh
Sleighs were in use for moving people around such as when going to church and visiting relatives. The driver sits on a trestle behind the body, in this padded space several people can be seated. If necessary, two more people hitch a ride, each on one side of the box standing on a metal-coated rib (glider). Arren is no place for chilly people; the lower legs of those standing also get snowed under. Depending on the region, several versions of the sleigh appeared; they may be beautifully painted with a tableau on the back, often a winter landscape, and carvings on the front.
The horse carries harnesses with bells; a two-horse harness makes even more impression and noise. There used to be a municipal ordinance that in case of snowfall and snow-covered roads, coachmen had to equip their carriages with a jingling bell to be heard in time.
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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