Argali c. 1830

Thomas Doughty produced this print of an Argali, or mountain sheep, sometime in the first half of the 19th century. The artist lived in a rapidly changing America, one where westward expansion was becoming increasingly common. This image reflects an era of exploration and documentation, and is part of a longer history of representing the natural world. The print comes from a time when scientific illustration played a key role in how people understood their environment. But consider the emotional aspect: the serene depiction of these animals evokes a sense of peace. It also subtly hints at the complex relationship between humans and nature. The artwork’s composition invites us to reflect on our role in the environment, and on how we view and interact with wildlife. It's not just a picture of sheep, but also an invitation to consider the values we place on the natural world.