The Three Tétons c. 1873

This albumen print by William Henry Jackson captures the majestic Teton mountain range. The name “Tétons,” given by French trappers, alludes to breasts, linking the landscape to the female form. The symbolism of breasts is as old as humanity itself, representing nourishment, fertility, and motherhood. From ancient fertility goddesses with multiple breasts to Renaissance paintings of nursing Madonnas, this motif recurs across cultures and epochs. These mountains, rising prominently on the horizon, tap into our primal connection to nature and the life-giving force it embodies. Such imagery touches something deep within the collective unconscious. The mountains, like the maternal figure, evoke a sense of comfort and protection, while their towering scale can also inspire awe and humility. Thus, the "Tétons" are more than just geographical features; they are powerful symbols resonating with our most fundamental emotions and experiences.