Geit 1820 - 1833

Editor: This pencil drawing, simply titled "Geit," or "Goat," by Roelof van der Meulen, dates from the early 19th century. It's surprisingly life-like. I’m curious, what do you see in this piece beyond just a rendering of an animal? Curator: Well, the goat, as an image, resonates deeply across cultures. Consider its biblical association with the scapegoat, bearing the sins of others. What psychological weight does this transference of blame carry? Editor: That's a pretty loaded association for just a humble farm animal! So you're suggesting the image evokes that concept of burden? Curator: Potentially, yes. The gaze of the goat is very important here: note the way its eyes almost plead. Moreover, in mythology, goats are often connected with fertility and virility, symbols of life's generative force. Think of Pan, a hybrid creature blending human and goat. Editor: I hadn't thought about the duality there. It makes you wonder what van der Meulen intended by showing it so plainly, almost scientifically. Was he trying to elevate it beyond just an animal study? Curator: Perhaps. The image invites contemplation on the multifaceted symbolism that a single creature can embody – sin, absolution, primal energy. Art often presents these layers, inviting us to consider which resonates most deeply with our own cultural memories and experiences. And which resonate within van der Meulen? What personal associations did goats have for the artist? Editor: It definitely gives you a lot more to think about than just the drawing itself. Now, looking at the image I’ll think of all the emotional weight and symbolism the goat carries!