Schapen Possibly 1883 - 1885

This is a pencil sketch of sheep by George Hendrik Breitner. The sheep, huddled together, become more than just livestock; they emerge as symbols of collective unity. Consider the ancient motif of the Golden Fleece, guarded by a dragon, or the sacrificial lamb of religious lore. The sheep carries a complex history, evoking innocence and vulnerability but also wealth and prosperity. Breitner's sheep lack the idealized, pastoral settings often associated with such imagery. They are raw, unadorned, almost primal. The sketch captures the essence of 'the flock' not as a scene of bucolic tranquility, but as a visceral representation of belonging and perhaps even a subconscious yearning for collective identity. Observe how the lines create a sense of volume and form, embodying an emotional weight. This image, sketched with minimal strokes, taps into a deep-seated collective memory. The symbol of the sheep is timeless, and continues to be revisited and reinterpreted across cultures.