Pelikanen 1876 - 1924

Gerrit Willem Dijsselhof rendered "Pelikanen" with delicate strokes, capturing more than just birds, but rather a symbol laden with history. Dominating the scene is the mother pelican, a Christian emblem of self-sacrifice, piercing her breast to feed her young with her own blood. This poignant act mirrors Christ’s sacrifice, resonating with themes of redemption. The pelican motif is far from new, echoing through medieval bestiaries and altarpieces across Europe. You may see it in gothic tapestries, or even earlier, in Roman mosaics, each instance subtly shifting the meaning to fit its cultural milieu. The enduring power of this image lies in its raw emotional appeal. It evokes our deepest instincts of parental love, sacrifice, and the primal connection between life and death. This echoes through the ages, a testament to our shared humanity. This symbol, like a migratory bird, continuously resurfaces, its feathers ruffled by time, yet still recognizable.