Lamb 1954

This is "Lamb", a print made by Milton Avery. At first glance, the lamb appears as a symbol of innocence and purity, evoking Christian iconography where Christ is the sacrificial lamb. However, Avery’s modern interpretation veers from tradition. The lamb, rendered in thick, textured strokes, dominates the landscape beneath stark mountains. This depiction echoes the ancient motif of the 'Agnus Dei' but strips it of its overt religious context. The 'Agnus Dei', or Lamb of God, can be traced back to early Christian art, symbolizing sacrifice and redemption. The bold black ink that obscures the scene may signify latent fears that lurk beneath the surface. This symbolic subversion engages our subconscious, highlighting the cyclical nature of symbols, ever-changing and yet perpetually resonant.