Figurer, dyr- og dekorationsudkast 1878

Theodor Philipsen created this study sheet with pen and ink, populating it with figures, animals, and decorative elements. The most prominent is the tranquil cow, a symbol deeply rooted in human history. Since ancient times, the cow has been a potent symbol of nourishment, fertility, and maternal care. Consider the Egyptian goddess Hathor, depicted as a cow or with bovine features, embodying motherhood and abundance. This reverence for the cow transcends cultures, appearing in various forms throughout the ancient world. In Philipsen's sketch, the cow's serene presence amid the chaotic sketches evokes a sense of groundedness. This symbol, passed down through generations, taps into our collective memory. Philipsen uses an archetypal image of the cow and engages viewers on a deep, subconscious level, evoking feelings of comfort and connection to nature. Thus, Philipsen's cow sketch becomes more than just a study; it is an exploration of how enduring symbols resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings, while retaining their fundamental emotional resonance.