Koe 1788

Hendrik Willem Schweickhardt’s etching of a cow captures the animal in a moment of bovine serenity. The cow, a symbol of nourishment and placidity, has been revered since ancient times. Think of the Egyptian goddess Hathor, depicted with bovine features, embodying motherhood and abundance. Yet, in this unassuming etching, we glimpse more than just a farm animal. The cow’s sturdy build and the slight tension in its posture speak to a primal strength. Consider how this image contrasts with the myth of Europa and the Bull, where Zeus transforms himself into a magnificent bull to abduct the princess. Here, Schweickhardt’s cow is devoid of such grand narratives. It stands as a testament to the enduring connection between humanity and nature, a bond deeply embedded in our collective consciousness. It reminds us of a simpler, agrarian existence, a nostalgic echo resonating through the corridors of time.