Spot the Horses at National Gallery Singapore

Summary:

• Key highlights: Thomson’s The Esplanade from Scandal Point, Aw Eng Kwang’s Horse Drinking Water, Lim Nang Seng’s Boy with Horse and Raden Saleh’s Six Horsemen Chasing Deer. 
• Horses appear in both calm and energetic scenes, adding a festive perspective to the Gallery. 
• Perfect for families, visitors, or anyone looking for what to do in Singapore this Lunar New Year; plan your visit for a story-filled art experience.

Looking for a festive outing that’s a little different this Lunar New Year? Swap the crowds and noise for a relaxed wander through National Gallery Singapore, where horses appear across artworks from different moments in history.

The Esplanade from Scandal Point by John Turnbull Thomson

Where: City Hall Wing, Level 2, DBS Singapore Gallery 1

Before skyscrapers filled the skyline, this lively public square—the Padang—was where locals gathered, socialised, and exchanged gossip at Scandal Point. Thomson’s painting captures the scene with horses quietly going about their business, adding a touch of everyday life to this orderly colonial landscape. A gentle reminder that horses were once part of the city’s day-to-day life!

Horse Drinking Water by Aw Eng Kwang and Boy with Horse by Lim Nang Seng

Where: City Hall Wing, Level 2, DBS Singapore Gallery 2

Here’s where horses take centre stage in everyday moments. Aw Eng Kwang’s horse pauses for a refreshing sip, while Lim Nang Seng captures a friendship between a boy and his four-legged companion. Both works are perfect for CNY vibes—peaceful, joyful, and a little heartwarming, reminding us of the simple pleasures of life (and maybe the year ahead!).

Six Horsemen Chasing Deer by Raden Saleh

Where: Supreme Court Wing, Level 3, UOB Southeast Asian Gallery 2

Here’s where horses take centre stage in everyday moments. Aw Eng Kwang’s horse pauses for a refreshing sip, while Lim Nang Seng captures a friendship between a boy and his four-legged companion. Both works are perfect for CNY vibes—peaceful, joyful, and a little heartwarming, reminding us of the simple pleasures of life (and maybe the year ahead!).

Make it a festive trip!

Whether you’re planning a family outing, entertaining visitors, or simply exploring artworks in Singapore, National Gallery Singapore is a cool, spacious, and story-filled destination. From quiet moments to dramatic action, the horses here make a charming, unexpected companion for your Lunar New Year adventures.

Plan your visit