Strandgezicht 1800 - 1841

Joannes Bemme created this drawing, *Strandgezicht*, with pen in the early 19th century. The scene depicts a beach, where a group of figures huddle beneath a makeshift shelter, while others stand or wander along the shore, all under a vast, open sky. The composition of such groups bears an uncanny resemblance to depictions of the Flight into Egypt, where the Virgin Mary and the infant Christ seek refuge. The arrangement of figures around a makeshift shelter taps into archetypal themes of protection, vulnerability, and the search for safety. The theme transcends its immediate context, echoing in various cultural narratives across time. The emotional resonance of seeking refuge has been a potent symbol throughout history. The figures huddling together evoke a sense of shared vulnerability and the primal need for community. This drawing presents an opportunity to reflect on the enduring human experiences of seeking shelter, finding solace in community, and navigating the uncertainties of life.