Pastoral: Shepherd Playing a Harmonica (Pastorale: Berger jouant de l'harmonica) 

This woodcut presents us with a scene by Aristide Maillol, depicting a shepherd playing the harmonica. The shepherd, adorned with a laurel wreath, embodies pastoral serenity, a motif echoing the idyllic visions of antiquity. The laurel wreath, an ancient symbol of victory and status, traces back to Apollo, god of music and poetry. Its presence here evokes a connection to classical ideals and a romanticized view of rural life. Consider how this symbol has journeyed through time, shifting from a marker of divine favor to secular honor, adorning emperors and poets alike. The harmonica itself introduces an intriguing contrast, as a relatively modern instrument placed within this classical tableau. Yet, the image suggests a cyclical progression, a return to nature and simplicity. This is a potent engagement with our collective memory, stirring subconscious longings for harmony and peace. The image resonates with echoes of Arcadia, an invitation to reflect on our relationship with nature.