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Student Artwork Guide

Caballo

Name Class Date

Heriberto Juárez, Caballo (1997), Fundación Universidad de las Américas Puebla. Reproduced for reference; rights reserved by the rights holder. See this canvas under a moving light: the drawing, the true colour under the varnish, the bare pigment

The facts

Artist
Heriberto Juárez topimpressionists.com/en/artists/heriberto-juarez/
Artist’s dates
1932 – 2008
Painted
1997
Medium
Carved
Original size
15 x 11 cm
Period
Contemporary
Held at
Fundación Universidad de las Américas Puebla topimpressionists.com/en/museums/fundacion-universidad-de-las-americas-puebla-cholula/
Artistic style
Abstraction
Influences
Pre-Hispanic
Notable elements or techniques
Intricate carving
Subject or theme
Animal

In context

Caballo — Heriberto Juárez

How big is it?

The original measures 15 × 11 cm (height × width), drawn here beside an adult of average height.

When was this painted?

  1. 1930
  2. 1940
  3. 1950
  4. 1960
  5. 1970
  6. 1980
  7. 1990
  8. 2000

Row above: the years. Row below: how old the artist was at the start and at the end of each span — 0 at birth, 76 at death.

Painted when the artist was 65. The artist lived to 76. 1 of the 50 dated works by this artist in our catalogue came earlier.

Shaded: the lifetime of Heriberto Juárez (1932–2008) ▲ this work, 1997 every dated painting, decade by decade

Compare with

  • Caballo, 1999 topimpressionists.com/en/art/heriberto-juarez-caballo-D7BEQT-en/
  • Toros mitológicos, 1997 topimpressionists.com/en/art/heriberto-juarez-toros-mitologicos-D7BDDW-en/
  • Paloma, 1996 topimpressionists.com/en/art/heriberto-juarez-paloma-D7BFJG-en/

Pick one work above: name two things it shares with this one, and one thing that's different.

More works to set beside this one: topimpressionists.com/en/art/similar/heriberto-juarez-caballo-D7BC4W-en/

Colours

Measured from the image

    Main colour

    Driftwood #a5815d

    Catalogued palette

    • #A5815D
    • #FEFEFD
    • #2B170B
    • #5C412B

    These colours inside the artist’s whole palette Find other paintings by colour

    Palette
    Neutrals The dominant colour family in the image.
    Main colour name
    Driftwood
    Intensity
    Monochromatic How saturated and varied the colours are, from a single toned-down hue to many bright ones.
    Contrast
    Statement How much the colours differ in lightness and saturation across the picture.
    Harmony
    Strong Color Unity How well the colours work together, from clashing to fully unified.
    Brightness
    Brilliant How light or dark the picture reads overall, from deep shadow to bright highlight.
    Saturation
    Muted How pure and strong the colours are, from near-grey to fully vivid.

    Where in the world is this painting looked at?

    • under 1%
    • 1–3%
    • 3–8%
    • 8–20%
    • 20% and over
    This painting alone has too few recorded visitors to map, so the plate reads every work by Heriberto Juárez over the last twelve months — 1 countries in all. Where these figures come from

    The ten leading countries

    1. 1 China 100.0%

    Find the three darkest countries on the map. Is the museum that keeps this painting in any of them? Write down one reason people far away might look at it.

    The 10 most looked-at works by Heriberto Juárez

    1. 1 Homenaje a Juárez, 1997 16.7%
    2. 2 Adán y Eva, 1997 16.7%
    3. 3 Caballo, 1999 8.3%
    4. 4 Caballo, 1997 this painting 8.3%
    5. 5 Niño torero, 1999 8.3%
    6. 6 Toros mitológicos, 1997 8.3%
    7. 7 Paloma, 1998 8.3%
    8. 8 Torso café, 1997 8.3%
    9. 9 Toro sol, 1997 8.3%
    10. 10 Don Quijote y Sancho, 1997 8.3%

    Together these works take 99.8% of all the attention this artist's paintings received over the last twelve months. The catalogue holds 51 works by this artist, of which 10 were looked at at least once. This painting ranks 4 of them, with 8.3% of that attention. The same counts, month by month

    Bars measure attention, not quality. Pick the work at the top and this one: name one thing that might make a painting famous beyond how well it is painted.

    About this artwork

    Caballo — Heriberto Juárez

    A Study in Texture and Mythic Resonance

    In the evocative sculpture Caballo, the renowned Mexican artist Heriberto Juárez invites us into a profound engagement with heritage and the masterful manipulation of form. Created in 1997, this piece embodies Juárez’s signature style, where a deliberate contrast between vibrant energy and stark simplicity amplifies its emotional impact. Though its physical presence is intimate, the work possesses a monumental spirit, achieved through meticulous craftsmanship that speaks to the artist's deep dedication to his medium.

    The sculpture depicts a horse rendered in rich brown wood, capturing the creature in a dynamic and contemplative pose. With its head turned slightly to the side, the figure gains an air of quiet introspection, inviting the viewer to look closer at the intricate details carved into its surface. Juárez employs subtractive carving techniques, carefully removing material to reveal the underlying form, resulting in a tactile texture that celebrates the natural beauty of the wood while pushing the boundaries of abstraction.

    Symbolism and Cultural Heritage

    Beyond its physical beauty, Caballo is deeply rooted in the cultural heartbeat of Mexico. Juárez’s artistic vision draws heavily from pre-Hispanic iconography and traditions, where the horse serves as a powerful symbol of fertility, strength, and nobility. This connection to Mesoamerican concepts allows the piece to transcend mere representation; it becomes a vessel for identity and mythic resonance.

    The artist's approach seeks to evoke feeling rather than simply depict reality. By positioning the horse in a way that suggests balance and movement—with one leg supporting its weight—Juárez mirrors the rhythmic patterns of nature itself. This subtle narrative of stability and motion creates a sense of life within the static medium, making the sculpture feel as though it is caught in a fleeting moment of grace.

    An Inspiration for Curated Spaces

    For the discerning collector or interior designer, Caballo offers a sophisticated interplay of texture and light. Its earthy tones and organic form make it a commanding focal point that breathes life into any curated space, whether placed in a modern gallery setting or a more traditional, warm interior. The piece serves as an exquisite example of how fine art can bridge the gap between historical reverence and contemporary aesthetic appeal.

    Artist and museum

    Artist

    Heriberto Juárez

    Born in San Juan Teotihuacan, Mexico

    early life and career

    heriberto juárez, a renowned mexican artist, was born in 1932 in san juan teotihuacan, state of mexico. with no formal training in art, juárez's innate talent and passion for creativity led him to become a self-taught sculptor and painter. initially, he aspired to be a bullfighter but soon discovered his true calling in creating figures, which eventually became the foundation of his artistic career.

    artistic style and themes

    juárez's work is characterized by its vibrant colors, abstract yet recognizable forms, and a deep connection with mexican culture. his sculptures and paintings often feature women and animals, especially bulls, which reflect his fascination with the beauty of everyday life. the artist's unique style has been widely acclaimed, with over seventy individual exhibitions in mexico and the united states.

    notable works and collections

    some of juárez's most notable works include:

    heriberto juárez: creatividad (298 x 22 cm, fundación universidad de las américas puebla, san andrés cholula, mexico), a sculpture showcasing the artist's allegorical approach to creativity.

    adán y eva (241 x 171 cm, fundación universidad de las américas puebla, san andrés choloria, mexico), a sculptural piece that explores the themes of humanity and duality.

    don quijote y sancho (45 x 42 cm, fundación universidad de las américas puebla, san andrés choloria, mexico), a full-body sculpture honoring the characters from miguel de cervantes' novel.

    museums and collections featuring juárez's work

    hastings museum and art gallery (united kingdom) - although not exclusively featuring juárez's work, this museum showcases a diverse collection of art and artifacts.

    eiteljorg museum of american indians and western art (united states) - this museum, while primarily focused on native american and western art, demonstrates the global appreciation for juárez's work.

    legacy and online presence

    juárez's legacy can be explored through various online platforms, including:

    heriberto juárez | AllPaintingsStore.com - featuring the artist's biography and artworks.

    heriberto juárez - wikipedia - providing an in-depth look at the artist's life and career.

    conclusion

    heriberto juárez, a self-taught mexican sculptor and painter, has left an indelible mark on the world of art. his vibrant, abstract forms continue to inspire, and his legacy can be explored through various online platforms and museum collections.

    Museum

    Fundación Universidad de las Américas Puebla

    On show in Cholula, Mexico

    A Sanctuary of Heritage: The Soul of UDLAP

    Nestled within the historic embrace of Cholula, Mexico, the

    Fundación Universidad de las Américas Puebla

    serves as much more than a mere repository for artifacts; it is a living, breathing dialogue between Mexico’s storied past and its vibrant, contemporary spirit. To step onto the grounds of this institution is to enter a realm where academic rigor meets artistic passion. The museum, situated within the magnificent former

    Hacienda Santa Catarina Mártir

    , offers an immersive journey through the heart of Mexican identity. Here, the air seems thick with the echoes of colonial grandeur and the transformative energy of modern intellectual pursuit, creating a sanctuary that invites both the casual observer and the seasoned collector to lose themselves in the beauty of the Americas.

    The architectural narrative of the museum is a masterpiece of metamorphosis. The transition from a sprawling, colonial-era hacienda estate into the prestigious campus of UDLAP is etched into every stone and archway. Visitors find themselves wandering through a landscape where

    baroque elegance

    meets modern innovation. Sunlight filters through ornate windows to illuminate expansive halls that reflect the dual mission of the university: to preserve the sanctity of history while fostering the seeds of future discovery. This architectural harmony provides a breathtaking backdrop for the art it houses, as the very walls seem to pulse with the same creative vitality found within the canvases and sculptures on display.

    A Tapestry of Color and Clay

    The collection at UDLAP is a curated odyssey through the evolution of Mexican Fine Art, boasting over 600 works that capture the shifting tides of a nation's soul. While the museum honors various eras, its true heartbeat lies in the

    20th-century masterpieces

    . These works, characterized by their bold experimentation and defiance of convention, offer a panoramic view of an era where artists redefined the boundaries of form and meaning. One might encounter powerful sculptures that grapple with themes of social justice and personal identity, standing in silent, profound conversation with paintings that explode with textural richness and a uniquely Mexican palette. For the interior designer or art enthusiast, these pieces represent more than decoration; they are windows into the emotional landscape of a transformative century.

    Beyond the canvas and the chisel, the museum celebrates the tactile traditions that define Mexican craftsmanship through its exquisite

    Talavera Ceramic Collection

    . This assembly of pottery is a testament to an enduring legacy, where ancient techniques meet sophisticated artistry. Each ceramic piece, with its intricate patterns and symbolic motifs, provides a tangible connection to the ancestral roots of the region. It is this seamless blend of high fine art and traditional folk craft that makes UDLAP truly unique—it does not merely present art; it presents a culture. Whether through a rotating exhibition of contemporary installations or a deep dive into colonial ceramics, the museum remains a dynamic center for cultural engagement, ensuring that the artistic spirit of Mexico continues to inspire, provoke, and enchant generations to come.

    Where to read more

    Find this online

    QR code linking to the download page for Caballo

    topimpressionists.com/en/art/download/heriberto-juarez-caballo-D7BC4W-en/

    Cite this artwork

    MLA
    Juárez, Heriberto. Caballo. 1997, Fundación Universidad de las Américas Puebla. https://topimpressionists.com/en/art/heriberto-juarez-caballo-D7BC4W-en/
    APA
    Juárez, Heriberto (1997). Caballo [Painting]. Fundación Universidad de las Américas Puebla. https://topimpressionists.com/en/art/heriberto-juarez-caballo-D7BC4W-en/
    Chicago
    Heriberto Juárez. Caballo. 1997. Fundación Universidad de las Américas Puebla. https://topimpressionists.com/en/art/heriberto-juarez-caballo-D7BC4W-en/
    Harvard
    Juárez, Heriberto (1997) Caballo. Fundación Universidad de las Américas Puebla. Available at: https://topimpressionists.com/en/art/heriberto-juarez-caballo-D7BC4W-en/

    Look closely

    Caballo — Heriberto Juárez

    Look closely

    Answer in your own words. There are no wrong answers here — only answers you can explain.

    1. What catches your eye first, and why?
    2. Which colours or shapes create the mood — and what is that mood?
    3. Our catalogue files this work under: horse sculpture, mexican art, animal figure. Do you agree? What would you add, or take away?
    4. Look back at Caballo (1999), earlier in this guide. Name two things it shares with this work, and one that is different.
    5. Heriberto Juárez was about 65 when this was made. What in it looks like the work of an artist at that stage?

    Your response

    Write a short paragraph about this artwork. Use the facts from the earlier parts of this guide, and your answers above.

    Art quiz

    Caballo — Heriberto Juárez

    How well do you know this artwork?

    Tick one answer for each of the 5 questions below. Each has exactly one correct answer.

    1. 1. What material was used to create the sculpture 'Caballo'?

      • A Bronze
      • B Brown wood
      • C Stone
    2. 2. In what year was the sculpture 'Caballo' created?

      • A 1932
      • B 1997
      • C 1999
    3. 3. What is a recurring motif in Heriberto Juárez's work, as mentioned in the text?

      • A Bulls
      • B Lakes
      • C Mountains
    4. 4. Which technique did Juárez employ to reveal the underlying form of the sculpture?

      • A Additive modeling
      • B Subtractive carving
      • C Oil glazing
    5. 5. What are the dimensions of the 'Caballo' sculpture?

      • A 30 x 22 cm
      • B 15 x 11 cm
      • C 45 x 42 cm

    My score: ____ out of 5

    Answer key — for the teacher

    This starts a fresh printed page, so it can simply be left out of the copies.

    1B · 2B · 3A · 4B · 5B

    Check any answer against the catalogue record for this painting

    Questions & Answers

    Who sells hand-painted copies of "Caballo" by Heriberto Juárez?

    Hand-painted copies of "Caballo" by Heriberto Juárez are sold on this website: a hand-painted oil reproduction on linen canvas, ordered from its Hand-Painted Reproduction page.

    What emotional tone accompanies the Mexican Abstraction style of "Caballo"?

    The calm emotion of "Caballo" accompanies its Mexican Abstraction style.

    When was "Caballo" created, and to which movement does it belong?

    "Caballo" was made in 1997, within the Mexican Abstraction movement.