Twee Nehalennia-altaren, pl. X 1843 - 1845

Tiemen Hooiberg created this print of two Nehalennia altars, capturing symbols that resonate through time. Here we see Nehalennia, the Celtic-Germanic goddess of seafarers, commerce, and fertility. She often appears with a dog, symbolizing fidelity, and holding a basket of fruit, emblematic of abundance. Note how Nehalennia, framed by a temple, echoes the classical representations of deities. But consider how these motifs are not isolated. The image of a goddess with offerings harkens back to ancient fertility cults, with the emotional promise of safety and prosperity, something deeply rooted in our collective psyche. The dog, a guardian and companion, also emerges in various guises across cultures, from Cerberus guarding the gates of the underworld to faithful companions in domestic scenes. Indeed, symbols are fluid, like water, constantly resurfacing and taking on new forms.