Drei Boote bei bewegtem Meere segelnd 

This drawing by Abraham Storck the Elder, captures three boats sailing on a turbulent sea. The motif of the ship, dominant here, is ancient, dating back to the earliest civilisations, symbolising trade, exploration, and the journey of life itself. Consider the 'Ship of Fools,' a medieval allegory, or the ship as a metaphor for the Church, guiding souls to salvation. Here, in Storck's rendering, the ship also evokes a sense of national pride with the Dutch flag prominently displayed. The water—ever-shifting—adds another layer. Water appears across cultures, often representing the subconscious, the realm of dreams, and the primordial chaos from which life emerges. The ship, then, navigates not just physical waters but also the depths of our collective psyche. The turbulent waves might stir feelings of uncertainty. Yet, the presence of the ships provides a sense of direction and purpose. The symbol of the ship is a testament to humanity's enduring quest for meaning and orientation in the vast ocean of existence.