Rivier met rechts een kapel 1586 - 1630

Isaak Major created this small print of a river scene with a chapel using etching techniques. Notice the chapel on the right, a modest yet prominent structure overlooking the river. Chapels, throughout history, have been more than just places of worship; they are symbols of refuge, community, and spiritual solace. Think of the countless depictions of the Madonna in her protective cloak, sheltering humanity. This archetype resonates deeply within our collective consciousness, offering comfort in times of uncertainty. The presence of sheep in the lower right foreground introduces another layer, echoing the age-old motif of the shepherd and his flock. The shepherd represents guidance, care, and the nurturing of a community, themes mirrored across cultures, from ancient Greece to Christian parables. The cyclical nature of these symbols is fascinating, as they resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings in different historical contexts, yet retain a core essence that speaks to our shared human experience.