Lake of Thun looking North 1820 - 1867

This pencil drawing of Lake Thun, looking North, was made by Clarkson Stanfield. The dramatic mountains framing the serene lake evoke a sense of sublime power, a concept that has resonated through art history. Notice how Stanfield captures the towering peaks; such visual elements remind me of the recurring motif of mountains as symbols of spiritual ascent and divine presence. We see this echoed in the ziggurats of ancient Mesopotamia, or even the sacred Mount Fuji in Japanese art, all representing a bridge between the earthly and the divine. The reflection of the mountains in the tranquil water introduces another layer, inviting introspection and contemplation. It’s a mirror reflecting not just the physical world, but perhaps also our inner selves. Such a powerful image engages the viewer on a deep, subconscious level. This motif of mirroring and the symbolic mountain transcends time, resurfacing and evolving, constantly taking on new meanings in different historical contexts.