Bastille Day in Montmartre 1892

This etching, *Bastille Day in Montmartre,* was created by Félix Hilaire Buhot and resides at the Art Institute of Chicago. Here, the festive spirit of Bastille Day is somewhat veiled, concealed by the artist's delicate strokes. Fireworks illuminate the sky, yet the scene carries a haunting quality. Consider the recurrent motif of light piercing through darkness, reminiscent of ancient battles between good and evil. This symbol transcends eras, appearing in religious iconography, mythologies, and even modern cinema. The contrast of light and shadow can invoke a deep emotional response, playing on our primal fears and hopes. This visual language speaks to our collective unconscious, echoing through time and culture. Each era interprets these symbols anew, yet their fundamental power remains. The symbolic weight of darkness and light resonates powerfully, hinting at underlying tensions.