Eagle 1935 - 1942

This is Curry M. Bartlett's watercolour of an eagle, capturing the majestic bird through its iconic head. The eagle, a symbol of power, freedom, and divine authority, has ancient roots. It appears in Egyptian, Roman, and Christian art, and its commanding presence elicits a deep emotional response from viewers. Consider, for instance, the Roman Imperial Eagle, the Aquila, perched atop standards, embodying military might and imperial dominance. It resurfaces centuries later, adapted in the heraldry of European monarchies and, notably, as the emblem of the United States of America, signifying liberty and national pride. The representation of the eagle's head with such intense focus—the sharp beak slightly open as if in mid-cry—may tap into our primal understanding of dominance, both fierce and protective. It’s a recurring motif that speaks to our collective memory of strength. The motif of the eagle as a cultural symbol, its cyclical journey, continues to evolve through time, reflecting and shaping human perception.