Portret van de vier zusjes Van Loon 1774 - 1837

Charles Howard Hodges sketched this portrait of the four Van Loon sisters using chalk, capturing a tender moment of domesticity. The book held by one of the sisters is a powerful symbol of knowledge and sophistication, historically associated with access and education. Consider how the motif of a woman reading appears in Jan van Eyck's "Arnolfini Portrait," where Saint Margaret is depicted with a book, symbolizing her intelligence and piety. Over time, however, this symbol evolved. In the Renaissance, images of women reading became associated with the humanist ideal of the educated woman. This signifies a shift towards a deeper appreciation of female intellect. Looking at the image, you can see how the book’s presence evokes a sense of contemplation and introspection. It invites the viewer to reflect on the enduring human quest for knowledge, highlighting a collective memory and a narrative of learning that resonates across generations. The cyclical progression of this symbol reminds us of its continued presence and relevance throughout history.