Grisene 1843

Here we see Johan Thomas Lundbye's drawing, "Grisene," a simple scene rendered with ink on paper. The dominant image is that of a sow, reclining as her piglets feed. The pig, often associated with baser instincts, has appeared throughout art history. Yet here, Lundbye presents a tableau of pure, maternal nurture. We recall images of the Madonna and Child, the archetypal symbol of motherly love, echoed here in this humble barnyard. But consider how the image of the pig has changed over time. In medieval art, it often symbolized gluttony, one of the seven deadly sins. Yet, Lundbye strips away these layers, focusing on the primal, life-giving force of motherhood. This intimate portrayal evokes a powerful sense of empathy, reminding us that beneath the surface of every creature lies a capacity for tenderness and care.