Wit konijn 1900 - 1910

Ogata Gekko crafted this woodblock print of a white rabbit, an auspicious symbol, sometime between 1859 and 1920. The rabbit, or hare, is one of the twelve signs of the Chinese zodiac, and widely featured in East-Asian folklore. Often associated with the moon and immortality, this motif appears in various other visual contexts. Consider its recurrence in European art, particularly in medieval tapestries and illuminated manuscripts, where the rabbit may symbolize fertility, or the triumph of the weak over the strong. Across cultures, the rabbit’s image is a powerful emotional force, engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. Its association with vulnerability and gentleness evokes feelings of tenderness and empathy, while its cunning and agility can inspire admiration and respect. Thus, the rabbit resurfaces, evolves, and takes on new meanings as it crosses time and space, proving that these images are not merely representations, but vessels of cultural memory.