Geitenbok c. 1750 - 1800

G. van Citters created this etching of a Geitenbok, or billy goat, sometime in the distant past. In Western art, animals have often been used as symbols, sometimes representing human traits or societal values. This work invites us to consider how we project our own understanding of masculinity onto the natural world. The goat, often associated with virility and stubbornness, becomes a canvas for exploring societal expectations of male identity. What does it mean to embody the characteristics traditionally assigned to masculinity? Consider the emotional weight of these expectations, both for those who embrace them and those who find themselves at odds with them. How do these cultural narratives shape our understanding of self and others? This image serves as a mirror, prompting us to reflect on the complex interplay between nature, culture, and identity.