Kalkoen en eenden bij hek 1906 - 1945

Reijer Stolk rendered this woodcut, portraying a turkey and ducks by a fence. The turkey, a symbol of abundance and, at times, pride, stands guard, while the ducks, often associated with domesticity, gather nearby. Observe the turkey’s prominent stance. We see similar expressions of dominance in ancient heraldry, where animals symbolize power. Yet, here, the context shifts. This image echoes the classical motif of animal studies, but it’s imbued with a modern, almost playful sensibility. The clustering of ducks evokes a sense of community but also vulnerability. This visual tension – between the protective turkey and the huddled ducks – reflects a primal narrative. The motif of protective guardianship recurs throughout art history, signifying both security and the ever-present threat of the outside world. This simple barnyard scene speaks to the cyclical nature of symbols, forever evolving.