The coastal scenery of Britain has often served as an emblem of national
identity. The fact that Britain is an island has been presented as
a source of national strength and independence.
Hunt's extraordinarily detailed and vivid evocation of a cliff-top
scene is intended to refer to the state of the nation. The vulnerability
of the sheep represents the dangers associated with religious sectarianism,
and the even more pressing threat of invasion from foreign forces
– both great concerns at the time this picture was painted.
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