Landschap met wilde eend after 1659

This etching presents us with a seemingly simple scene: a duck, rendered with delicate lines. But, as always, appearances can be deceiving. Observe the reeds. They are not mere background. In many traditions, reeds symbolize adaptability and resilience, bending but not breaking in the face of adversity. Now, consider the duck itself. Throughout history, across cultures, birds have often represented the soul or spirit. They remind us of our transient nature. I am reminded of how, in ancient Egyptian art, birds frequently appear, carrying souls to the afterlife. This simple image evokes a deep sense of the cyclical nature of existence. The duck and reeds become potent symbols, embodying themes of resilience, transformation, and the enduring connection between the natural world and the human spirit.