Vrouw warmt haar voeten bij een kachel in de keuken 1862 - 1908

Piet Verhaert created this print of a woman warming her feet by a stove, capturing a moment of domestic life. At the heart of the image is the hearth, a symbol as old as civilization itself. The hearth represents not only warmth, but also security, family, and the nurturing center of home life. Consider the Vestal Virgins of ancient Rome, who tended to the sacred flame, ensuring the safety and continuity of the state. This reverence for fire is echoed in countless cultures, from the bonfires of pagan rituals to the candles lit in remembrance. Over time, the hearth has evolved from a communal fire to a more private stove, yet its psychological resonance remains. This image evokes the deep-seated human need for warmth and comfort, reminding us of the primal connection between fire, home, and well-being. It is a reminder of how symbols endure, adapting to new forms, yet forever linked to our collective past.