Aries 1907

Editor: This watercolor by Mikalojus Konstantinas Ciurlionis, titled "Aries," painted in 1907, is really intriguing. I’m struck by its ethereal, dreamlike quality and how the blues and browns blend together. It reminds me of a celestial landscape. What symbols or meanings do you see in this piece? Curator: Well, the most immediate is, of course, the ram, Aries, a potent symbol across cultures from ancient Egypt to Greece, often linked to leadership, initiation, and the spring equinox – a time of rebirth. And what of the starry configuration echoing its form? Doesn’t that evoke a deeper connection between earthly and cosmic realms? What feelings does this elicit for you? Editor: I hadn't considered the link between the constellation and the ram's depiction. The deep blues feel connected to that, but I’m also a little puzzled because the landscape is so muted. Does that clash with the Aries symbol? Curator: Not at all. The muted tones create a sense of timelessness, placing the Ram within a landscape that is as much psychological as it is physical. Ciurlionis uses visual cues to create a space where myth and reality intertwine. That geometric mountain could symbolize obstacles overcome through Aries’ assertive energy, how fascinating! Editor: I guess I can appreciate it more when you point it out; a link between ancient mythology, astrological signs and dreamlike landscape. What did viewers at the time see, I wonder? Curator: Precisely! Remember that this was a period of intense exploration of symbolism across Europe, fueled by movements like Symbolism and Theosophy. So audiences likely interpreted it through similar lenses. Editor: That connection makes this artwork so much more interesting. I'm beginning to appreciate how deeply intertwined it is with symbolism of rebirth. Curator: Indeed. And that is the power of imagery - to collapse time, and reveal cultural memory!