Kip met kuiken after 1659

This engraving presents a hen with her chick, rendered with striking detail. The hen, or *Gallina* as it is inscribed, traditionally embodies motherhood, protection, and domesticity, deeply rooted in our collective consciousness. The motif of a mother hen shielding her young resonates across cultures. Consider its echoes in religious art, such as depictions of the Virgin Mary sheltering the faithful under her mantle. The protective gesture of the hen, her wings a haven, becomes a universal symbol of care and security. Yet, such imagery is never static. In different eras, the hen and chick might symbolize fertility, prosperity, or even vulnerability. This visual language transcends time. The subconscious processes at play—our inherited memories and emotional responses—shape how we perceive such imagery. The seemingly simple depiction engages us on a profound, psychological level. Ultimately, the image of the hen and chick is not just a snapshot but a recurring echo. It reminds us of how symbols resurface, evolve, and take on new life, forever weaving through the tapestry of human experience.