A Pastoral Possibly 1880 - 1891

B. Gay Wilkinson created this serene image in platinum, capturing a shepherd in repose. The crook, or shepherd's staff, is more than a tool; it’s an ancient symbol of guidance, authority, and care. Consider the scepter of kings, the bishop’s crosier – echoes of this humble implement. The shepherd, a universal archetype, appears across cultures, from the Good Shepherd of Christian parables to the protective figures in classical pastoral scenes. The act of tending sheep, with its connotations of watchfulness and provision, carries a deep emotional weight, tapping into our collective memory of simpler, perhaps idealized, times. This symbol has a non-linear progression. It resurfaces, evolves, and takes on new meanings in different historical contexts. This image evokes our collective longing for a life in harmony with nature.