Nuttige dieren 1869 - 1882

This is a print by Gerhardus Philippus Zalsman, representing various ‘useful animals.’ It presents a seemingly simple portrayal of domesticated creatures, but each animal carries a weighty history of symbolism. Take the horse, for example, depicted here with its foal. Throughout history, the horse has been a symbol of power, freedom, and nobility. We see it in ancient Greek mythology, pulling the chariots of gods, and in countless equestrian portraits of kings and emperors, representing their dominion. But consider too, how the image of a horse evokes the untamed—a raw, instinctual energy. This duality reflects our own internal struggles between reason and primal urges. The sheep, a symbol of innocence, has been used by Christianity to represent the faithful. The dog, a symbol of loyalty and friendship, appears across cultures representing devotion and care. These symbols transcend time, subtly influencing our perceptions and emotions. Each image becomes a non-linear progression, resurfacing, evolving, and taking on new meanings across time.