Zittende man, mogelijk een schaapherder c. 1884 - 1887

This is Willem Witsen's drawing of a seated man, possibly a shepherd. Note the figure's posture and the obscurity of the surrounding environment. The seated posture, a common motif throughout art history, is here imbued with a sense of quiet contemplation, echoing the classical tradition of the philosopher or the shepherd resting in nature. This echoes images of the Good Shepherd, a symbol of guidance and protection. The man sits in isolation, and this pose suggests a connection to the land. Consider, too, how the motif of the shepherd has evolved. From ancient pastoral scenes evoking a Golden Age to more modern interpretations reflecting the realities of rural life, the shepherd embodies a timeless connection between humanity and nature. We can sense the weight of collective memory at play, a subconscious yearning for simpler times. The emotional resonance of this image lies in its evocation of solitude and reflection, inviting us to contemplate our own relationship with the natural world. This echoes through time, a recurring dream of returning to a more fundamental state of being.