Italiensk fantasilandskab 1763

Jens Petersen Lund sketched this "Italiensk fantasilandskab" using red chalk in 1765. Notice how Lund places the figures in the lower right corner. They are reminiscent of the Holy Family. The image of the Holy Family, especially Mary with the Christ child, has deep roots in religious iconography, symbolizing motherhood, divine love, and refuge. This echoes images of Isis nursing Horus, a testament to the enduring human need for symbols of nurturing and protection. The Holy Family motif evolves through the ages, appearing in Byzantine mosaics, Renaissance paintings, and even contemporary art. Each era reinterprets it, reflecting prevailing cultural values and psychological needs. The image is a powerful emblem engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. The cyclical progression of this symbol, from ancient Egypt to Lund's Italian landscape, highlights its ability to resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings in different historical contexts.