Studies van vier schapen en een koe 1838 - 1840

This artwork, a study of sheep and a cow, was made by Pierre Frédéric Lehnert in the 19th century. Notice how the cow stands over the sheep, a guardian of the flock. This protective motif has its roots in ancient pastoral imagery, where animals were symbols of innocence, purity, and divine care. We see echoes of this in early Christian art, where Christ is often portrayed as the Good Shepherd, tenderly watching over his flock. But the cow here is a horned, imposing figure. Throughout history, horns have been associated with power, virility, and aggression. Consider the Minotaur of Greek mythology or the horned deities of ancient pagan religions. The presence of horns, and the imposing strength of the cow create a tension between protection and potential aggression. This image resonates with our deepest anxieties and desires, for safety and for strength. It speaks to a primal, collective memory that transcends time and culture, reminding us of the cyclical nature of protection and threat.