Zonnebloemen om een lege lijst c. 1877 - 1941

This etching, made in 1887 by Barbara Elisabeth van Houten, presents sunflowers dramatically surrounding an empty frame. The sunflower, a symbol of adoration and longevity, was popularized by Van Gogh as an emblem of the late 19th century avant-garde. Here, the flowers aggressively encircle the void, the emptiness of the frame becoming a focal point that draws us in. This use of floral motifs reminds us of the wreaths and garlands of classical antiquity, where flowers symbolized victory, life, and memory. Yet, the wilting and exaggerated forms carry a disquieting feeling. Consider how this motif recurs in art history, from ancient Roman sarcophagi adorned with floral garlands to the Dutch still life paintings teeming with symbolic blooms. The sunflower’s journey through time shows how symbols evolve, echoing our collective memories. It reflects our changing relationship with nature and the ephemerality of life, as it continues to bloom in new contexts.