Vallée du Lys 

This is Maxime Lalanne’s ‘Vallée du Lys,’ a lithograph that captures the imposing beauty of a mountain valley, the scene dominated by towering peaks and a serene waterfall. The valley, as a motif, has long resonated within the human psyche as a symbolic representation of shelter, abundance, and the hidden promise of nature's embrace. Think of Leonardo's "Virgin of the Rocks," where the grotto offers not just physical shelter, but also a spiritual haven. This same sense of protection is echoed in the valley's form. The mountains enclose, offering both a boundary and a sanctuary from the unknown. But the waterfall is key, water that is the lifeblood, the promise of renewal and continuity. It is a symbol that has been passed down through millennia, reappearing in countless myths and artistic traditions. The way we perceive the valley may be a projection of our collective subconscious. This image offers a space of contemplation and awe, inviting us to reflect on the delicate balance between humanity and the natural world, and the timeless allure of the valley.