Immortelles 

Stefan Luchian's "Immortelles" presents a seemingly simple vase of flowers, yet it is laden with symbols transcending the image. Dominating the composition, we see the immortelles themselves; these flowers, known for retaining their form and color even when dried, are age-old emblems of memory and immortality. Consider how floral motifs recur across diverse eras and cultures, from ancient Egyptian funerary wreaths to the Renaissance vanitas paintings, each echoing themes of transience and the cyclical nature of life. The dried flowers of Luchian's artwork, which have the capacity of being kept forever, also act as memento mori. These flowers connect us to a collective understanding of time, loss, and the enduring human spirit. They engage us on a deeply emotional level, prompting reflection on our own mortality and the poignant beauty of fleeting moments. The image reflects how symbols reappear, evolve, and take on new meanings across time.