Studie van koeien 1876 - 1910

Alphonse Stengelin sketched these resting cows with pen on paper sometime between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The cow, a pervasive symbol throughout history, often embodies nourishment and maternal care. In ancient cultures, the cow was revered as a sacred animal, linked to goddesses of fertility and abundance, like Hathor in Egypt. This reverence resonates even today in some cultures where cattle are still considered sacred. Consider how these gentle creatures, symbols of peace and plenty, contrast sharply with the aggressive bull, an emblem of virility and power. Yet, both figures stem from humanity's deep-seated relationship with cattle, reflecting our complex interactions with the animal world. Observe how Stengelin’s cows, depicted in a state of serene repose, evoke feelings of tranquility and pastoral simplicity, a powerful connection to nature and the nurturing aspects of life. The symbolic journey of the cow from antiquity to modernity shows a constant reinvention of meaning, shaped by society’s changing needs and subconscious longings.