Fotoreproductie van een prent van een sculptuur van Väinämöinen die harp speelt in het park Monrepos in Vyborg before 1875

This photogravure captures a sculpture of Väinämöinen playing his harp in Monrepos Park, embodying Finnish myth. Väinämöinen, a central figure in the Kalevala, is often depicted with his kantele, a harp crafted from a giant pike's jaw. Music, in this context, is not mere entertainment, but a powerful force capable of enchanting nature, lulling creatures to sleep. The motif of a hero enchanting nature through music echoes across cultures. Think of Orpheus, whose lyre calmed wild beasts, or David, whose harp soothed Saul’s tormented soul. Music is a potent symbol of harmony, connection, and catharsis. This same gesture, this same instrument is passed down through history, shifting slightly, yet retaining the same essence. The emotional resonance of Väinämöinen's song touches our subconscious—a reminder of music's primeval power. The image reminds us that these ancient myths and archetypes recur throughout history, evolving, resurfacing, and perpetually gaining new meanings.