Gezicht op twee huizen in Romeinse stijl in Doornik, België before 1880

This photograph captures two houses in Doornik, Belgium, built in the Roman style. The gabled roofs stand side by side, a visual echo that resonates through time. Consider the gable: a motif extending far beyond Roman architecture, found in various cultures across centuries. From ancient temples to medieval homes, the gable symbolizes shelter and stability. This shape is not merely structural, it's a cultural carrier laden with the collective memories of home. Interestingly, the gable also recalls the pediments of classical temples, which are charged with sacred and communal meaning. Observe how this architectural element has been continually reinterpreted, shifting from sacred to secular contexts, yet retaining a sense of foundational strength. The image evokes a psychological longing for stability and permanence, engaging viewers on a subconscious level. The gable, in its cyclical progression, embodies the enduring human desire for order and security, constantly reappearing in diverse forms throughout history.