Oorsprong van de Seine met een vrouw die de was doet, twee mannen en koeien 1829

This print by Léon Jean Baptiste Sabatier depicts the origin of the Seine. Here, water emerges, a symbol of life's source, traditionally a feminine motif. The woman washing clothes is a direct link to the ancient water nymphs of classical mythology. These spirits, tied to bodies of water, were believed to possess healing and prophetic powers. We find them echoed in Renaissance fountains and paintings, where water symbolizes purification and rebirth, continuously evolving through historical contexts. The presence of the Seine's origin suggests the river's life-giving properties and historical importance, evoking a deep psychological connection to nature's cycles. This timeless scene resonates with our collective memory, reminding us of water's vital role throughout human history.