Liggende koe, van voren 1775 - 1833

Jean Bernard’s delicate drawing captures a resting cow with soft pencil strokes. Beyond its pastoral simplicity, the image resonates with ancient symbolism; the cow, a recurring motif representing nourishment, fertility, and maternal strength. In ancient Egypt, the cow goddess Hathor was a vital deity, embodying abundance and divine motherhood. Similarly, in ancient Greece, the cow was associated with Hera. These associations transcend geographical boundaries. Consider, for example, the Hindu reverence for cows as sacred beings, symbols of gentleness, and unconditional giving. Bernard's cow, so peacefully recumbent, evokes this archetypal connection to nature's nurturing force. It is a potent reminder of our species’ profound link to the animal world. The drawing thus taps into our collective memory. A symbol that continues to resonate, echoing through time.