“A good shepherd at a tax office?” someone once exclaimed. Here at the Finanzamt f\u00fcr Gro\u00dfbetriebe an der Bult in Hanover, a monument-protected bronze sculpture by Kurt Lehmann watches over the building. This is Der gute Hirte.
The artwork’s presence prompts reflection. Why would the authorities commission a ‘good shepherd’ for a tax office?
This bronze sculpture “Der gute Hirte” has been here since 1961. It watches over the people visiting the Finanzamt f\u00fcr Gro\u00dfbetriebe. The building originally served as the main building for the Veterinary University. That explains the sculpture’s theme.
The image of the Good Shepherd is ancient. It symbolizes care and protection.
In Christianity, the Good Shepherd is one of the oldest titles for Jesus Christ. The image appears even before the New Testament. In ancient times, shepherds held religious significance.
The Old Testament uses the shepherd image often. Moses was seen as a shepherd of his people. Leaders were called good or bad shepherds. Psalm 23 is the “Shepherd Psalm”.
Jesus says “I am the good shepherd”. The good shepherd knows his sheep. He will give his life for them.
The early Christians used the image of the Good Shepherd in their art. It is found in the Roman catacombs. It shows the shepherd with a lamb on his shoulders.
The image reminds us of older depictions. These include animal carriers from ancient times. The Greeks used the image.
Today the image of the Good Shepherd still resonates. It speaks of guidance. It speaks of protection.
This sculpture “Der gute Hirte” connects the modern world with ancient ideas. It links the tax office with faith.
As you leave, consider the message of the Good Shepherd. Think about protection and guidance in all aspects of life. The “Der gute Hirte” is a powerful symbol. It stands guard in an unexpected place. It prompts us to reflect on timeless values.