Liggende hond 1752 - 1783

Hendrik Godart de Marée captured this resting dog in an etching, a humble scene of domesticity, yet rich with symbolical connections. The dog, often a symbol of loyalty and vigilance, is here caught in a moment of vulnerable repose. This domestication, taming, and anthropomorphization of animals can be traced back through centuries. Think of the vigilant dogs guarding tombs in ancient Roman art, or the loyal companions depicted in medieval tapestries. Here, however, the animal scratches behind its ear. This simple gesture of the animal scratching evokes a shared sense of discomfort and vulnerability; a universal, almost primal experience. It speaks to our own self-awareness and our attempts to alleviate discomfort. This act connects us across time, reminding us of shared aspects of existence that bind all living beings together. The emotional power lies in the mundane, urging us to see beyond the immediate and recognize the deeper currents of continuity.