Rendezvous (bei der Rousseau-Insel) (Original Title) 1866

Here, in this photograph by Hermann Wilhelm Vogel, we see a couple walking in a park, framed by the towering trees, which are in the Tiergarten in Berlin. Consider the symbolism inherent in a path through a forest. It's a motif that echoes through countless myths and fairy tales, representing life's journey, choices, and hidden dangers. Think of Dante's "Divine Comedy," where he begins his journey through a dark wood, a metaphor for spiritual crisis. In this photograph, the couple, possibly lovers, embark on their own path, their future uncertain, just like ours. The gesture of holding hands speaks volumes. It’s a universal symbol of connection, support, and shared experience. Yet, even in this intimate moment, there's a sense of isolation, framed by the grandeur of nature. This tension between connection and solitude is a recurring theme in art, literature, and life. It reflects our deepest desires for companionship, while also acknowledging our inherent aloneness in the face of the world.