Sabin mountains 1830 - 1831

August Lucas made this landscape drawing of the Sabin Mountains. Lucas was drawn to the beauty and sublimity of nature, a prominent theme in Romanticism. Mountains often symbolize steadfastness and transcendence, a connection to the divine. We see this symbolism echoed across cultures, from Mount Olympus in Greek mythology to Mount Sinai in the Judeo-Christian tradition. Mountains are not just geographical features; they are also spiritual and psychological landmarks. This drawing transports me to the Renaissance, and the works of Leonardo da Vinci. His backgrounds often feature imposing mountain ranges which imbue his paintings with a sense of timelessness and mystery. The mountain as a symbol has been interpreted across eras to represent challenges but also the potential for spiritual insight. Its constant presence speaks to the collective human experience.