Bosviolen 1876 - 1924

Gerrit Willem Dijsselhof created this print, "Bosviolen," with woodcut techniques. At first glance, it presents a stylized arrangement of violets and foliage, emblematic of nature's beauty. However, these botanical motifs carry layers of meaning. The violet, for instance, has long been associated with modesty and faithfulness, virtues deeply rooted in cultural memory. We can trace similar floral emblems across centuries, from ancient Greek garlands to Renaissance tapestries, each time imbued with the socio-cultural values of the time. Consider how, in medieval times, the violet was linked to the Virgin Mary, symbolizing humility. This symbolism, deeply embedded in the collective subconscious, subtly influenced the creation and reception of such images. The intense emotional states, like reverence, are conveyed through this association. Thus, this print is not merely a decorative piece but a vessel carrying forward the cyclical progression of symbols, each adapted and reborn within new historical contexts.