Yard of an Old House n.d.

Cornelis Saftleven rendered this drawing of an old house with pen and brown ink, capturing a humble, everyday scene. At first glance, the architectural details are what stand out. Yet, the presence of the ladder here is not merely utilitarian; it evokes a sense of ascent and potential. Since ancient times, ladders have symbolized spiritual elevation. Think of Jacob's Ladder, bridging Earth and Heaven. Here, the ladder leads to an elevated structure, a space apart from the mundane. This ascent can be connected to the human desire for transcendence. In Saftleven’s time, and even now, it speaks to our subconscious yearning to overcome earthly constraints. The image becomes more than just a depiction of a humble house; it is a powerful symbol engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level, representing the cyclical progression of aspirations, resurfacing and evolving through time.