Fotoreproductie van een schets van een vrouw die vogels voert door Albert Hendschel before 1870

This is a sketch of a woman feeding birds, by Theodor Huth. Observe how the woman is surrounded by birds, symbols of freedom and spirituality, yet contained within the domestic sphere, reflecting a deep-seated tension. This motif of a woman amidst birds echoes through art history, from ancient goddesses associated with avian familiars to Renaissance depictions of Saint Francis preaching to the birds. Note how the act of feeding, a gesture of nurture, is an act of domination. The bird perched on the woman's shoulder evokes images of spiritual messengers, a motif that resurfaces through mythologies. This symbol conveys a powerful yet paradoxical image, engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. The cyclical progression of the bird symbol transcends time, resurfacing and evolving with new meanings across various historical contexts.