Staande en liggende stier 1659 - 1709

This is an engraving of two bulls, titled ‘Staan de en liggende stier’, and it comes to us from an anonymous artist. In a time when the identities and roles within rural communities were tightly bound to the land and its resources, the image of livestock carried a heavy cultural weight. Gender dynamics played out not just among humans but also in the animal kingdom, where the bull stood as a potent symbol of masculinity and strength. This piece offers a glimpse into a world where human lives were deeply intertwined with the natural environment. The emotional connection to these animals, which were often the livelihood for farming families, is palpable. Whether the artist intended to reinforce traditional views or offer a subtle critique, the piece invites us to reflect on the power structures present in both human and animal societies.