A Slaughtered Ox, Rome 1883 - 1884

Theodor Philipsen painted "A Slaughtered Ox, Rome," during a period of significant social and artistic change in Europe. Philipsen’s visceral depiction of raw meat transcends mere representation, delving into the emotional and primal aspects of existence. The scene is unflinching, yet painted with delicate colors. The choice of subject matter, while rooted in tradition, also challenges the viewer to confront the realities of life and death, and our relationship to the natural world. Consider the intersections of class and labor inherent in the slaughter and consumption of animals. Who performs this work, and who benefits from it? The painting invites us to contemplate the human condition and our place within a larger ecosystem.