Allegorische Figur mit Löwe und Pfau 1882 - 1883

Hans Canon created this allegorical figure with a lion and peacock using oil. We see symbols of power and beauty intertwined. The lion, traditionally linked to strength, reclines peacefully, while the peacock, a symbol of vanity and pride, perches nearby. These motifs carry a rich history. The lion has appeared in countless forms, from ancient Mesopotamian art to heraldic emblems, always signifying might. The peacock, sacred to Juno in Roman times, later became associated with immortality and resurrection in Christian art. Interestingly, the same bird associated with pride can also symbolize renewal. Here we observe the cyclical nature of symbols; they are never static. Their meanings evolve, are reinterpreted, and reappear in different guises across epochs. The artist, perhaps unconsciously, taps into this collective memory, presenting an image that resonates with deep-seated cultural associations. It's a dance of power and beauty, pride and strength, echoing through time.