Vier seizoenen voorgesteld door vier kinderen 1778 - 1838

This etching by Anthonie van den Bos depicts cherubic children, each representing a season through symbolic attributes. The most prominent motif is the garland of flowers, held by one of the children. This is reminiscent of Flora, the Roman goddess of springtime, and is linked to themes of renewal and fertility. The garland motif appears across art history, from ancient Greek festivals to Renaissance paintings. The use of flowers as symbols has changed over time, but its connection to beauty and transience has remained constant. Psychologically, the garland taps into our collective memory, evoking feelings of joy, celebration, and the cyclical nature of life. The association between childhood and nature stirs something primal within us, engaging viewers on a subconscious level and triggering a deep emotional connection. Thus, this cyclical nature of renewal and hope is subtly embedded in this simple image.