Huizen en een molen aan een waterkant 1888 - 1889

Alexander Shilling sketched this waterside landscape with pencil, capturing a Dutch windmill and surrounding houses. The windmill, a dominant symbol here, transcends its functional role. It evokes a sense of persistence. Similar to how the wheel symbolizes the cyclical nature of life across cultures, from ancient Mesopotamian art to Buddhist mandalas, the windmill’s turning blades reflect time’s relentless passage and the endurance of human endeavor. Windmills harness nature's power, mirroring humanity's long-standing ambition to control and utilize the environment, a theme echoed in countless mythologies and technological advancements throughout history. The image creates a subconscious connection to our shared cultural memory. This landscape is not just a scene, but a potent symbol of the human spirit.