The Old Cock 1877 - 1887

Félix Bracquemond's "The Old Cock," rendered in watercolor and graphite, presents us with more than just a barnyard fowl. The rooster, a symbol of vigilance and virility since antiquity, strides forth. From the Roman war god Mars, to the Gallic rooster, the image of the cock has crowed across cultures and centuries, a potent symbol of power and pride. Yet, here, Bracquemond offers us an "old" cock. This aging figure, slightly stooped, brings to mind not triumphant virility, but the weight of years. Consider, how often do we confront symbols stripped of their idealized glory? Bracquemond touches upon the psychological undercurrents of time, and our collective awareness of mortality. The image resonates deeply, stirring primal fears of decay, even as it acknowledges the enduring spirit inherent in such archetypes. It’s a powerful commentary on the cyclical nature of symbols, their inevitable transformation, and the emotional truths they continue to embody.