Briefkaart aan Philip Zilcken Possibly 1913 - 1931

This is the back of a postcard, addressed by Jean de Foville to Philip Zilcken, bearing a French postage stamp. Note the figure on the stamp. She stands, draped, scattering seeds – an allegory of France herself. She's a modern echo of classical depictions of Ceres, the Roman goddess of agriculture, or perhaps an antique Victory, bestowing bounty. Throughout history, the act of scattering seeds or grain has been a potent symbol of prosperity, growth, and civilization. In ancient Egypt, we find similar motifs associated with fertility rituals. Consider, too, the pervasive image of the sower in Christian parables, where seeds represent spiritual growth. Here, on this humble postage stamp, the motif resurfaces, transformed, yet retaining its primal resonance – a testament to the enduring power of symbols that continue to shape our collective consciousness. It is a powerful force, engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level.