Riviergod Tagus 1586

This engraving of the river god Tagus was created by Philips Galle in the late 16th century. Here, the river is embodied as a muscular, bearded man, a convention inherited from the classical world, sitting pensively beside a large seashell from which water flows. This association of deities with natural elements—rivers, seas, mountains—reveals a profound connection between the human and natural worlds, and reminds me of similar representations across cultures. Take, for instance, the figures of Poseidon or Neptune, often depicted with flowing beards and powerful physiques, symbolizing their dominion over the seas. The recurring motif of the river god serves not only as a personification but also as a cultural vessel, carrying forward collective memories and beliefs. It reflects humanity's enduring need to understand and personify the forces of nature, engaging with the natural world on a deeper, almost subconscious level. The emotional weight carried by these symbols reminds us that we are looking at more than just a river, but an emotional landscape shaped by time and memory.