Buff Cochin China Hen, from the Prize and Game Chickens series (N20) for Allen & Ginter Cigarettes 1891

This late 19th-century lithograph by Allen & Ginter showcases the Buff Cochin China Hen, a breed originating from China, prized for its ornamental feathers. Here, it appears to embody both beauty and fecundity. The symbolism of the hen extends far beyond mere poultry. Across cultures, the hen, in its many forms, has resurfaced in various symbolic roles. In ancient Greece, the hen was associated with fertility and regeneration, often linked to deities like Persephone. This association can be seen re-emerging in the Roman era, where hens were kept in temples dedicated to fertility goddesses, continuing its trajectory through history. The symbolic representation of this bird is not linear; rather, it ebbs and flows through time, adapting to new cultural landscapes and collective unconscious. The image engages us on a subconscious level, invoking primal associations with life and abundance.