Zittende man houdt hand vast van vrouw met krans op hoofd 1510 - 1550

This engraving by Sebald Beham depicts a seated man holding the hand of a woman adorned with a wreath, a scene rich in symbolism. The wreath, a dominant motif, speaks of victory, honor, and cyclical renewal, tracing back to ancient Greek and Roman traditions. Here, it suggests something more—perhaps the fleeting beauty of youth or the promise of love. But look at the man's firm grip and the woman's averted gaze. The symbolism evokes a poignant tension, an emotional ambivalence. We see echoes of similar gestures across centuries—a hand held, a gaze exchanged. These are not mere copies, but rather, variations on primal themes of love, loss, and human connection. Consider the way the wreath’s meaning has shifted: from a symbol of triumph to, here, a more nuanced emblem of transient beauty. These shifts are not random but tell of our collective subconscious. The image acts as a mirror, reflecting our deepest desires, fears, and memories. The symbol resurfaces, evolves, and takes on new meanings.