Portret van Maximilien Morillon 1835 - 1883

This is a portrait of Maximilien Morillon, made by Joseph Franck. Note the subject's clasped hands, a gesture laden with historical and spiritual resonance. The act of joining hands has appeared across cultures and centuries, signifying prayer, supplication, or deep contemplation. Consider the praying hands of Albrecht Dürer, an image that, despite its religious context, evokes a universal sense of longing and introspection. Here, in Morillon’s portrait, this gesture speaks to a sense of inner piety and reflection. The hands, held close to the chest, might also suggest vulnerability or a plea for divine intervention. This simple yet profound gesture engages us on a subconscious level. It taps into our collective memory of seeking solace and guidance. The symbol is non-linear; the gesture has resurfaced, evolved, and taken on new meanings throughout history.