Sketch for the Judgment of Solomon (?); verso: Dancing Mythological Figures 1796 - 1812

Christian Gottlieb Schick rendered this sketch on paper, possibly as preparation for “The Judgment of Solomon”. The dramatic gestures and poses of the figures are laden with meaning. We see a figure being held upside down, this echoes the motif of inverted figures found in various mythologies, often symbolizing chaos, sacrifice, or a world turned upside down. This symbol appears throughout art history, from depictions of the crucifixion of Saint Peter to the Tarot card "The Hanged Man". The gesture of the arm raised high, a symbol of power and command, is also echoed across time, from ancient Roman sculptures to Renaissance paintings. It represents authority, justice, and divine intervention. The emotional weight carried in these gestures allows these images to engage viewers, tapping into our collective memory and stirring deep psychological responses. This sketch is a testament to the enduring power of symbols, revealing how certain motifs resonate across cultures and epochs. It’s a cyclical progression, resurfacing, evolving, and taking on new meanings in different historical contexts.