Studies 1876 - 1924

These studies are by Gerrit Willem Dijsselhof. Note the crescent moon motif floating above the head of the figure, a symbol that has journeyed through time immemorial. The moon, often associated with femininity, cycles, and the subconscious, finds its roots deep in ancient mythologies. Think of Selene in Greek lore, or Luna in Roman tradition—goddesses of the moon, guiding us through the night. The moon embodies the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth, resonating with our deepest fears and hopes. But here, in Dijsselhof's sketch, it appears almost dreamlike, evoking feelings of nostalgia, yearning, or perhaps a melancholy reflection on time's passage. This motif, seemingly simple, opens a gateway to the collective unconscious, a powerful force engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. Note how the moon’s presence is felt in different eras, from religious iconography to Romantic poetry, a testament to the enduring power of symbols.