Staande stier, naar links 1821 - 1889

Guillaume Anne van der Brugghen made this drawing of a standing bull, facing left, at an unknown date. In the Netherlands, during the nineteenth century, the image of the bull was deeply embedded in the nation's cultural and economic identity, symbolizing agricultural prowess and national strength. This image creates meaning through visual codes that echo the cultural and historical associations of the time. The careful attention to the animal's muscular build and stance speaks to a broader societal interest in agriculture and animal husbandry, reflecting the economic importance of farming in the Netherlands. We might ask whether the artist intended to comment on the social structures of his time or even critique the art institutions that may have favored certain subjects over others. To understand this work better, one might research the agricultural practices and economic policies of the Netherlands during the 19th century. Such inquiries help us appreciate how the art reflects and participates in the social conditions of its time.