Fisherman viewing the moon 1590 - 1610

Ye Guang's ink on silk painting presents us with fishermen contemplating the moon, a powerful symbol in Chinese art. Here, the moon embodies tranquility, enlightenment, and the cyclical nature of life. This scene is reminiscent of earlier works where the moon symbolizes a mirror reflecting the inner self, inviting contemplation and introspection. We find echoes of this sentiment in various artistic traditions across different eras, where the moon represents the subconscious mind, a realm of hidden emotions and desires. The moon's reflective quality can also be linked to collective memory. Its reappearance in art throughout history may tap into a deep, subconscious longing for peace and understanding. As viewers, we are drawn into this scene, not merely observing but participating in a shared emotional landscape of yearning and reflection. This timeless motif engages us on a profound level, reminding us of our connection to the past and to each other.