Zittende man aan een waterkant, een roeiboot en een landschap met bomen 1888 - 1889

Alexander Shilling created this sketch with pencil, capturing a waterside scene complete with a seated figure and trees. Consider the enduring symbol of the tree. Across cultures, it represents life, growth, and connection to the earth, echoing ancient beliefs in the interconnectedness of all things. Think of Yggdrasil, the World Tree in Norse mythology, or the Tree of Knowledge in the Garden of Eden. These archetypes appear in countless forms throughout history, reflecting our collective subconscious. The lone figure seated by the water may evoke a sense of contemplation and introspection. The act of observing nature has been a recurring motif, inviting viewers to reflect on their place in the world. This image resonates with a primordial human experience, reminding us of our inherent connection to the natural world and the timeless human quest for meaning.