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Leading, directing and governing

For nineteenth-century peasantry, the hierarchy of living things stretched from earth to heaven, with human beings placed between domination and subordination. Power symbols were a reminder that the balance between prerogatives and duties began at home and from there extended to the locality and society as a whole. Managing a house, leading a flock or directing a meeting required technical skills, ritual knowledge and personal qualities.

Livestock

Animal husbandry and agriculture shared the same spaces in complementary or conflicting rhythms. The shepherd led his flock from the village to the pastures, often living a marginal life. Because of his frugal habits and closeness to the animals, he was sometimes regarded as a simpleton or else a wise man. People attributed practical knowledge of the world to him although they were suspicious of his ability to see everything. The crook is his main tool, symbolising his relationship with his flock. It is his constant companion when leading, watching over or caring for the livestock and even when he is just walking or sunk in contemplation. It still conveys the idea of moral and religious authority today.