Zittend mannelijk naakt, van opzij gezien (1e prijs 1798) Possibly 1798

This red chalk drawing of a seated male nude, seen from the side, was created by Jacob Ernst Marcus in 1798. The figure leans on a rough-hewn stone, a pose reminiscent of classical sculptures of river gods or reclining heroes. Consider the position of the figure's arm, reaching upwards and outwards while resting on the stone. This gesture, repeated across centuries, echoes in depictions of Atlas bearing the heavens, and even finds resonance in Christian iconography, symbolizing burden and resilience. It is a motif that speaks of strength, both physical and existential. The placement of the figure upon the stone is also important, creating a visual language of vulnerability. The man's defenselessness echoes throughout art history and connects with our own subconscious understanding of strength and adversity. The symbols within this artwork are constantly evolving, constantly becoming, as they resurface, transform, and embrace new meanings within varying historical contexts.