Answers to the 'Take a closer look...' questions on the poster of David Bomberg's Racehorses.

1.How many horses can you see?

There are at least 30 horses but it is difficult to be sure of the exact number. This is probably deliberate on the part of the artist as it contributes to the sense of movement and activity that he is trying to convey.

2.Do you think it is the start or the end of the race?

It is probably the start of the race as many of the jockeys are still settling into position and the figures in the foreground are not all watching the action as they would be had they been viewing the end of the race.

3.How many figures can you see in the foreground?

There are two groups of figures in the foreground: a larger group of seven on the left and two on the right.

4.What do you think they talking about?

They are probably discussing the forthcoming race and the horses' "form" - in other words who is likely to win.

5.In how many different positions are the jockeys sat?

The jockeys are in a number of different positions: some leaning forward, others back, others upright, as if they have all just mounted and are settling into their saddles.

6.What is happening in the top right hand corner?

There is a very fast race going on in the top right hand corner - both horses and riders are moving so fast they have been reduced to mere shapes.

7.What pattern can you see on the saddles?

There is a criss-cross grid of tiny squares on the saddles.

8.What do you think the man in the bottom left hand corner doing?

The man in the bottom left hand corner may have just helped a rider to mount, or he may still be grooming or rubbing down the horse.