Weekly Calendar 1822

Joseph Anton Koch created this "Weekly Calendar" drawing using pen and watercolor sometime in the late 18th or early 19th century. Koch, working at a time of political upheaval in Europe, sought refuge in classical themes, reflecting a longing for order and harmony. In this composition, Koch intertwines classical allegories with calendar symbols, using the framework of a calendar to reflect the societal and cultural values of his time. The figures in the clouds, rendered in soft watercolors, enact classical dramas. We see how women are portrayed in either passive or reactive roles, embodying conventional ideals of femininity, while male figures are dynamic, full of vigor and action. The "Weekly Calendar" reflects Koch’s vision of the world. The artist employs classical and mythological themes to explore themes of power, gender, and the human condition. It invites us to reflect on the ways these enduring narratives resonate and challenge our understanding of ourselves and the world.