Sheep and a billy goat 

Curator: Welcome. Let's take a look at "Sheep and a billy goat," a drawing rendered in pastel by Friedrich Wilhelm Hirt, and housed here at the Städel Museum. Editor: My first impression is one of gentle observation, with a hint of rustic charm. The animals seem unposed, caught in a moment of quiet rest. Curator: The artist's skillful use of line is quite remarkable, isn't it? Observe the subtle variations in pressure and the way they define the forms of the animals with such economy. The overlapping creates a sense of depth within a limited pictorial space. Editor: Absolutely. The contrast between the soft, woolly sheep and the rough-haired goat speaks to something about animal symbolism itself: innocence against something a bit wilder, perhaps even unruly. In many cultures, sheep represent followers, while goats represent independence. Do you see evidence of that here? Curator: Well, structurally, notice the subtle yet definite composition of this artwork, this carefully organized cluster of forms which results in dynamic tensions and rhythm. The placement of the standing sheep on top of the others breaks this potential for visual stagnation. Editor: The pastoral theme reminds me of an idealized vision of rural life, echoing familiar motifs in folklore and art. It almost gives the whole a feeling of prelapsarian existence: peace before conflict. Curator: A very interesting observation. Indeed, whether intentional or not, such a sense definitely reinforces a pre-industrial perspective. Editor: Exploring the symbolic meanings woven into seemingly simple subjects allows us a rich, cultural tapestry. Curator: While closely examining Hirt’s meticulous drawing technique opens a portal into 18th century practice. A great drawing from the collection.