The Morning: Stags and Does 1858

Karl Bodmer created this aquatint and etching, titled “The Morning: Stags and Does,” in the 19th century. Here we see deer in the wilderness, with a stag standing vigil over a herd of does. Bodmer's work highlights the romantic fascination with untamed nature, which found its way into European art and literature. This image offers a visual code reflecting the era's social values; the stag embodies leadership and protection while the does represent tranquility and domesticity. The scene may evoke the vast landscapes of the American West, which were also being 'discovered' and settled during this period. Understanding this artwork also means examining the institutions that shape the production and reception of art. Prints like these, for example, became increasingly popular in the 19th century, making art more accessible to a wider public and also providing a source of income for artists such as Bodmer. By exploring the social, economic, and cultural context, we can uncover the rich layers of meaning embedded in “The Morning: Stags and Does.”