Cock Weather Vane 1935 - 1942

Editor: This drawing, "Cock Weather Vane," created with coloured pencil sometime between 1935 and 1942, is so striking in its simplicity. There’s something regal about this depiction of a rooster; almost like a heraldic emblem. What stands out to you? Curator: Indeed. The rooster, far beyond mere barnyard fowl, has accumulated a dense symbolic history. What colours are most prominent, and what might those evoke? Editor: It’s almost entirely shades of yellow and gold. Wealth and sunshine, maybe? Curator: Precisely! Gold represents not just material wealth, but spiritual richness and divine light. But look closer—do you see how the artist renders the form? What other associations come to mind related to the rooster across various cultures? Editor: Well, there’s definitely a metallic quality, making me think it’s meant to represent an actual weathervane. In some cultures, the rooster is associated with vigilance, courage… pride, even. Curator: Exactly! A watchful guardian, a solar symbol, a bringer of light and truth chasing away darkness. The form is highly stylized, isn’t it? Almost as if it were meant to last – not just physically, but in memory, wouldn't you agree? The artist distilled its essence, rendering it iconic. Does that lineage reveal a hidden context from 1935-1942? Editor: I see what you mean, especially connecting it to a longer history of symbols. All that detail packed into what seemed like a simple drawing… incredible. Curator: We’ve unearthed just a few threads; there are many others to discover! Exploring the meaning of symbols illuminates not only the artwork, but ourselves.