Prompt: Discuss four artworks, created by four different civilizations that we have studied, that reflect on human’s relationship to animals. You must describe and analyze the artworks with special attention to how the animal(s) (animal hybrids, and/or human animal hybrids) and humans are rendered and how the humans and animals interact with one another. What greater message does each artwork reveal about the values/beliefs/customs of the civilization responsible for its production?

QUESTION

Discuss four artworks, created by four different civilizations, that reflect on human’s relationship to animals. (Midterm paper).

Prompt: Discuss four artworks, created by four different civilizations that we have studied, that reflect on human’s relationship to animals. You must describe and analyze the artworks with special attention to how the animal(s) (animal hybrids, and/or human animal hybrids) and humans are rendered and how the humans and animals interact with one another. What greater message does each artwork reveal about the values/beliefs/customs of the civilization responsible for its production?

Artwork selection: Read the prompt carefully and select the artworks you write on thoughtfully. Each of the four artworks you select for discussion must be taken from a different Chapter PowerPoint posted to a course module (be sure to double check the PowerPoints as each one contains only a selection of artworks from a textbook chapter). We have covered Chapters 1-6. Properly identify each artwork discussed (include the title and date from the PowerPoint). Your discussion of the artworks must include descriptions and analyses of the formal properties and content, in addition to what is known about the context in which it was created.

References: Your paper must be phrased in your own words and it should build on information found in the textbook and course assignments (successful papers will not include text copied and pasted from course assignments, but instead consist of new text generated for this assignment). You may conduct additional research, but only reference the following credible sources: books, scholarly articles, museum websites, and Khan Academy.

Formatting guidelines: Your paper must be at least 3 full pages of text (and no more than 4 full pages of text) and contain an introduction with a thesis statement, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. It is to be typed in Times New Roman 12 point font and double-spaced, with one-inch margins. If you quote or closely paraphrase, please keep it to a minimum, and include proper citations in MLA or The Chicago Manual of Style format. Attach a bibliography to the end of your paper. Proofread your work for typos and grammatical errors. You do not need to upload reproductions of the artworks.

ANSWER

Exploring Human-Animal Relationships in Artworks across Civilizations

Introduction

Throughout history, the relationship between humans and animals has been a subject of artistic exploration. This paper aims to analyze four artworks from different civilizations that reflect on humanity’s connection with animals. By examining the representation of animals and humans in these artworks, as well as their interactions, we can gain insights into the values, beliefs, and customs of the civilizations responsible for their production.

 Title: “The Lion Panel”

   Civilization: Paleolithic (Chapter 1)

   Date: c. 32,000–30,000 BCE

   “The Lion Panel” is a striking example of Paleolithic cave art found in the Chauvet Cave in France. This artwork depicts several large animals, including lions, rhinoceroses, and horses, along with smaller animal figures. The representation of animals in this artwork showcases their significance to Paleolithic societies. Animals were not only essential for survival but also held symbolic and spiritual value.

 The humans in “The Lion Panel” are depicted in a limited manner, mostly through a few handprints. This emphasis on animals over humans suggests the Paleolithic worldview that acknowledged the interdependence of humans and animals in the natural world. The absence of direct interactions between humans and animals in this artwork highlights a sense of respect and reverence for the animal kingdom.

 Title: “The Standard of Ur”

   Civilization: Sumer (Chapter 2)

   Date: c. 2600–2400 BCE

   “The Standard of Ur” is an artifact from ancient Sumer, depicting scenes of war and peace. One side of the panel displays a vivid portrayal of a battle, while the other side showcases a banquet scene. Among the many figures represented, animals play a significant role, highlighting their involvement in human activities.

  In the war scene, chariots trample over fallen enemies, including lions and other wild animals. This suggests the Sumerian belief in the dominance of humans over the animal kingdom. In contrast, the banquet scene features a procession of animals, such as bulls and goats, symbolizing the abundance and wealth associated with Sumerian civilization. The careful inclusion of animals in both scenes conveys the complex relationship between humans and animals, involving power dynamics, exploitation, and the exploitation of natural resources.

Title: “Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara”

   Civilization: Gupta (Chapter 5)

   Date: c. 5th century CE

  “Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara” is a sculptural masterpiece from the Gupta period in ancient India. This artwork portrays a compassionate Bodhisattva, who embodies the ideals of Buddhism. While predominantly human in form, the deity is depicted with multiple arms, each holding symbolic objects, including an elephant goad.

   The inclusion of the elephant goad suggests a connection to animals, particularly elephants, which hold great significance in Indian culture. Elephants were revered for their strength, wisdom, and loyalty. By incorporating this animal attribute into the divine figure, the artwork reinforces the idea of compassion extending to all living beings, regardless of their form. The artwork reflects the Gupta civilization’s belief in the interconnectedness of all life and the importance of compassion towards animals.

 Title: “Las Meninas”

   Civilization: Baroque Spain (Chapter 6)

   Date: 1656 CE

  “Las Meninas,” painted by Diego Velázquez, is a renowned masterpiece of the Baroque period. This complex composition depicts the Spanish royal family, including Infanta Margarita, surrounded by various figures, including a dog. The dog in the painting serves as a symbol of loyalty and companionship.

The inclusion of the dog in “Las

 Meninas” represents the human-animal bond and the familial relationships within the royal household. The dog’s presence conveys the notion that animals are an integral part of domestic life, adding warmth and companionship. The artwork reflects the values and customs of Baroque Spain, highlighting the significance of family and the inclusion of animals as valued members of society.

Conclusion

Through an examination of these four artworks from different civilizations, we can observe diverse perspectives on the relationship between humans and animals. Whether through Paleolithic cave art, Sumerian artifacts, Gupta sculptures, or Baroque paintings, each artwork offers valuable insights into the values, beliefs, and customs of the respective civilizations. These artworks remind us of the complex and multifaceted connections that have existed between humans and animals throughout history, shedding light on the ways in which different societies have perceived and interacted with the animal kingdom.