Begroeting in interieur 1772 - 1843

Pieter Hendrik Jonxis captured this scene, titled "Begroeting in interieur", through engraving. The handshake, prominently displayed, is more than a mere greeting; it embodies trust and connection within the social fabric of the time. Consider the ancient Roman "dextrarum iunctio," where clasped hands symbolized agreement and unity, often in marriage. This motif evolves through medieval depictions of oaths and pledges, resurfacing here in a domestic setting. Note how the woman's reaction heightens the emotional impact, suggesting shared joy and perhaps relief. Such gestures tap into our collective memory, resonating with subconscious desires for security and community. It's a cyclical return of a fundamental human need: the reassurance found in physical contact, echoing across centuries.