Huizen in Bosvoorde 1854 - 1911

Adrien Le Mayeur de Merprés created this print titled, "Huizen in Bosvoorde". Dominating the foreground we see stark, bare trees which stand as silent sentinels. Trees, in their various forms, have always been powerful symbols. Think of the Tree of Life, present across cultures, a potent symbol of growth, connection, and the cyclical nature of existence. Notice how these trees, so skeletal and reaching, evoke a sense of starkness? This starkness reminds me of the bare branches in van Gogh's late works, expressions of inner turmoil. Here, they may signify the harsh realities of rural life, or perhaps a deeper, unspoken melancholy. This is an example of how symbols in different historical contexts are passed down through history. This image may also evoke feelings of isolation and resilience. It's a non-linear, cyclical progression, constantly resurfacing, evolving, and taking on new meanings.