Nacht (Nox) 1601 - 1605

Jacob Matham crafted this print, titled "Nacht," meaning "Night" in Dutch, sometime between 1571 and 1631. It stages a grand allegory of night, showcasing figures laden with symbolic weight. Dominating the scene is Morpheus, god of dreams, emerging from a cave with his horn. This horn, a symbol of transformation and illusion, echoes through time, appearing in countless guises—from ancient fertility rites to modern psychedelic art. The owl, perched nearby, is another ancient symbol associated with wisdom and nocturnal secrets, and is often linked to the Greek goddess Athena. The scene is populated with sleeping figures and dreamlike motifs, engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. The emotions that the night evokes such as mystery, fear, and solace, tap into collective memories. The image serves as a reminder of the non-linear, cyclical progression of symbols, resurfacing, evolving, and taking on new meanings.