Kop van een ram 1778 - 1820

Hendrik Stokvisch rendered this study of a ram’s head using chalk. The drawing centers on the animal’s face, dominated by its spiraling horns and dense wool, giving it a powerful, almost sculptural presence. The use of chalk allows for a rich interplay of light and shadow, creating a dynamic texture across the ram's face and fleece. Stokvisch’s marks are not merely descriptive; they are expressive, imbuing the animal with a palpable sense of vitality. The composition focuses on the ram's head, cropped tightly to amplify its imposing features, suggesting both strength and vulnerability. The drawing's formal qualities reflect broader concerns of the period, where the depiction of animals often served as a means to explore themes of nature, power, and the sublime. Stokvisch captures the essence of the ram, inviting viewers to reflect on the complex relationship between humans and the natural world.