Portret van Jacob de Wit 1827 - 1889

Edouard Dujardin created this portrait of Jacob de Wit using etching. It presents a compelling display of symbols interwoven with artistic legacy. We see cherubs, often emblematic of divine inspiration, framing de Wit's portrait, reminiscent of similar motifs in Renaissance art. The cherub is a powerful symbol from pagan antiquity - Eros, the god of love – adopted by Christianity and reborn into a symbol of divine love and wisdom. Note also the inclusion of a palette and brushes at the base, grounding him in his artistic practice. Beside them, a sculpture of a bearded man with a laurel wreath stands as a symbol of intellect and triumph. Consider how these symbols have traveled through time, shifting in meaning yet retaining their fundamental essence, echoing in various forms across art history. The presence of these figures engages us on a deep level, stirring emotions and memories tied to cultural archetypes. These recurring motifs evoke a sense of timelessness, reminding us of art's ability to transcend generations.