Abstraction c. 1920s

Jeanne Rij-Rousseau's "Abstraction" is a symphony of geometric forms rendered in earth tones. Triangles and semi-circular shapes dominate, symbols that have echoed through art history. The triangle, a motif as old as the pyramids, represents stability but also aspiration. The semi-circle suggests cycles, a recurring theme in human existence and artistic expression. Think of Botticelli's angels forming a circle in the "Mystic Nativity," embodying divine unity. Here, the combination of triangles and semi-circles creates a dynamic tension, reflecting the ever-shifting balance between the earthly and the ethereal. The overlapping of shapes hints at the layers of memory, influencing our perceptions. As you contemplate this work, consider how these elemental shapes have been a constant presence in art across millennia, evolving, adapting, and continuing to resonate within our collective consciousness.