Gebauers visitkort 1818 - 1822

This small card was etched by Christian David Gebauer, depicting an array of animals in a pastoral setting. The horse, a symbol of nobility and vitality, stands prominently, its form echoed in the smaller foal by its side. In contrast, the bull, a symbol of strength and virility, is depicted on the left, while a pair of dogs rests calmly near the reeds. The grouping of animals isn't merely decorative. The horse, throughout history, has been associated with swiftness, and the dogs with loyalty, tracing back to ancient mythologies. But here, these symbols are domesticated, brought together in a peaceful co-existence, reflecting a human desire to control and harmonize with the natural world. The psychological depth arises from the tension between our primal instincts and the cultivated order we impose, suggesting the enduring power of nature to evoke both awe and a yearning for dominion. Thus, the image serves as a microcosm of the world, where untamed forces are tempered by domestication. It is a cycle that continues to echo through the ages, resonating with our deepest fears and desires.