De højere og lavere dyr 1778

Editor: This etching from 1778, titled "De højere og lavere dyr"—or "The Higher and Lower Animals"—is by J.F. Clemens, and it’s quite striking! There's a pyramid of animals and at the top, a classical figure. It's making me think about hierarchies. What's your interpretation of the work? Curator: Indeed, this piece operates within a long tradition of allegorical representation, deeply embedded in the social and political climate of the 18th century. The ordered hierarchy isn't just an artistic choice; it's a reflection of the prevailing societal belief in a "Great Chain of Being." Editor: The Great Chain of Being? Curator: Precisely. It’s the idea that all of creation is arranged in a strict, divinely ordained hierarchy, from the lowest inanimate objects to God. Notice how Clemens positions the animals on these steps, creating a visual manifestation of this hierarchical system. The classical figure atop the pyramid reinforces the idea of human dominance over the natural world. Where do you think that concept originated and why might this have resonated with viewers? Editor: Maybe from classical ideas about civilization or from a colonial desire to put one's "own" culture above those of subjugated countries? Curator: Those are important threads to pull! This was also the Age of Enlightenment and scientific classification took root, with figures like Linnaeus trying to organize all living things. This imagery promotes an ideology justifying existing power structures, both natural and social. Understanding that history allows us to consider what this image condones, and what voices are excluded from this "universal" hierarchy. Editor: It’s unsettling how these artistic choices solidify such power structures. I definitely have a clearer view of the socio-political forces in play here, thank you! Curator: And understanding the history also enables us to critically question such historical legacies today.