St. Malo 1907

Maurice Prendergast painted this watercolor scene, St. Malo, capturing a bustling day at the beach. Observe the parasols, not merely as protection from the sun, but as symbols of leisure and social gathering. Parasols have a rich history, dating back to ancient civilizations where they signified power and status. The Assyrian bas-relief carvings depict royalty sheltered beneath elaborate parasols, and in ancient Egypt, they were associated with religious processions and divine protection. Here, they evoke a world of bourgeois leisure and display, a kind of secular procession by the sea. Consider how this symbol has evolved: from ancient emblems of divine authority to indicators of social standing. It’s a potent example of how cultural memory and adaptation shape our understanding and imbue objects with meaning. Note that the parasol's ability to offer shade touches on our deep-seated fears and desires related to exposure and protection. The image engages viewers on a deep, subconscious level, highlighting the cyclical progression of symbols.