Parc de l'Ile Saint Germain en het paviljoen van Henri IV 1858

Gerrit Postma created this pencil drawing of Parc de l'Ile Saint Germain and the Pavilion of Henri IV. Here, the statue is a potent symbol. Statues as commemorative effigies are deeply ingrained in the human psyche, far predating antiquity. Consider the ancient Egyptians who erected colossal statues of pharaohs, not merely as markers of ego, but as vessels through which the ruler’s spirit could continue to exert influence. The posture of the woman on this statue, perhaps a mother figure, and the children surrounding her hark back to classical Roman ideals of civic virtue. I am reminded of the Ara Pacis, where imperial families are depicted in harmonious unity, projecting an image of stability and prosperity. This composition evokes a deep-seated desire for order, security, and continuity. This quest for permanence in an impermanent world speaks to the heart of human existence.