Twee liggende geiten 1822 - 1893

Simon van den Berg created this etching of two goats in repose, printed on paper. Van den Berg lived and worked during a time of significant social change, including the decline of traditional agricultural practices and the rise of industrialization. Looking at this print, we see more than just livestock; the goats can be interpreted as a commentary on the shifting cultural landscape. During the nineteenth century the image of the animal was often used to reflect aspects of human identity and social commentary. Consider how the domestication of animals mirrors human attempts to control nature and society. The artist seems to be asking us to reflect on our relationship with the natural world. The choice of the goats as the subject is intriguing. Are they simply farm animals, or do they symbolize something more profound about rural life and the natural world? There's a certain tenderness in the way they're depicted, inviting us to contemplate our connection to these creatures and the environment we share. This artwork serves as a reminder of the emotional and personal dimensions of our existence.