Les ours 

Karl Bodmer’s print, ‘Les ours’, presents a scene of bears climbing a tree, rendered with meticulous detail. Bears, throughout history, have symbolized primal strength, courage, and a connection to the untamed wilderness. Consider the enduring presence of bear imagery across cultures. From the bear cults of ancient civilizations to its representation in European heraldry, the bear embodies raw power. Even in children’s stories, the figure of the bear oscillates between fearsome predator and comforting protector, tapping into our collective unconscious. Observe, for instance, how the upward movement of the bears in Bodmer's print mirrors the ancient motif of ascent, a universal symbol of spiritual or physical striving. The act of climbing suggests a desire to reach a higher state, echoing the imagery found in religious and mythological narratives worldwide. It evokes a deep-seated, primal response within us, stirring a sense of awe and respect for the natural world. Thus, Bodmer's ‘Les ours’ is not merely a depiction of wildlife, but a powerful engagement with archetypal symbols, inviting viewers to confront their own relationship with nature and the primal forces that continue to shape our collective psyche.