Zwarte kip, zittend naar rechts 1775 - 1833

Jean Bernard made this delicate drawing of a black hen in the late 18th or early 19th century. During this period, the visual representation of animals served various purposes, from scientific illustration to symbolic representation in art. At first glance, the hen may seem like a straightforward depiction of rural life, but think about the historical context. The work was produced during a time of significant social stratification. The detailed rendering invites us to consider the representation of labor and class. Bernard's decision to focus on this particular subject challenges the traditional hierarchies within art, where depictions of the natural world were often relegated to the background. What does it mean to elevate such a humble creature to the forefront? Bernard's hen is a study in quiet dignity. It prompts a consideration of the value and representation of the marginalized, reminding us that every subject, no matter how humble, has its own story to tell.