Liggende koe, naar links 1825

Jean Bernard’s delicate drawing captures a resting cow, its form rendered with soft lines. The cow, a symbol of nurturing and plenty, roots itself deeply in the collective consciousness, evoking the pastoral ideal of harmony between humans and nature. Consider the ancient Minoan bull-leaping rituals, or the Egyptian goddess Hathor, often depicted with bovine features, embodying motherhood and nourishment. Even in modern times, the image of the cow persists, morphing and adapting, as seen in the work of artists like Franz Marc. Here, the animal transcends its mere physical presence. The drawing invites us to reflect on the cyclical rhythms of life. The enduring power of this seemingly simple image echoes through time, reminding us of our profound, often subconscious, connection to the natural world.