Study of Sheeps' Heads 1836

James Ward, in this work, presents us with two studies of sheep’s heads. The sheep, since time immemorial, has been laden with symbolic weight. In early Christian iconography, Christ himself is often depicted as the Good Shepherd, a protector of his flock. But consider also the Golden Fleece, a symbol of wealth and power in Greek mythology, sought after by Jason and the Argonauts. Here, the sheep transcends its humble agricultural role, becoming an emblem of grand ambition and perilous quests. These depictions tap into a collective memory, where the animal embodies vulnerability, sacrifice, and even divine guidance. Ward's work engages us on a subconscious level, prompting reflection on how we project our own narratives and emotions onto these creatures. Indeed, Ward’s study, seemingly simple, carries within it a rich tapestry of cultural and psychological associations, continuing to evolve with each viewing.