Studie van Iris met rups, eronder een cocon en ingesponnen rups 1824 - 1900

Albertus Steenbergen rendered this study of an iris, caterpillar, and cocoon with delicate precision in the 19th century. The iris flower, throughout history, has been a symbol of faith, hope, and wisdom. But here, it is juxtaposed with the humble caterpillar and its transformative cocoon. Consider the ancient Greek myth of Psyche, whose name means "soul" or "butterfly." Her journey of transformation mirrors the caterpillar's metamorphosis, symbolizing the soul's evolution through trials and tribulations. The cocoon, a temporary tomb, hints at the promise of resurrection. This image reminds us that symbols are never fixed. They are constantly evolving, shaped by our collective memory and subconscious desires. The iris, caterpillar, and cocoon speak to our shared human experience of growth, decay, and the eternal hope for renewal, engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. The cyclical dance of life and death continues, as potent today as it was for the ancients.