The Bull 1815

This lithograph, simply titled 'The Bull' by Gottfried Engelmann, portrays the animal as a symbol of virility and raw power. The bull, rendered with detailed shading, stands firmly on the earth, a testament to its grounded strength. Since ancient times, the bull has been an emblem of potency and authority, from the Cretan Minotaur to the sacred Apis bull of Egypt. Even today, we see echoes of this symbolism in modern contexts, such as the charging bull statue on Wall Street, representing financial aggression and prosperity. The image taps into a deep well of collective memory, evoking subconscious associations with fertility and dominance. The bull's imposing presence engages viewers on a visceral level, triggering primal responses linked to strength. This visual language has resurfaced, evolved, and taken on new meanings throughout history.