Rotsen c. 1860 - 1865

Maria Vos sketched this landscape using graphite, capturing the essence of rock formations. The rocks themselves, steadfast and enduring, symbolize the passage of time and the forces of nature that shape our world. Consider the motif of the rock across cultures: from the biblical foundation upon which the church is built, to the ancient Greek myths where rocks are born from chaos, rocks have always symbolized stability, endurance, and the raw power of the earth. Note how the jagged edges and rough textures are similar to the romantic landscapes of Caspar David Friedrich. They evoke a sense of awe and the sublime. This aesthetic aligns with the psychological concept of the 'numinous' - the unsettling yet fascinating experience of confronting something beyond human comprehension. Vos connects to a long lineage of artists captivated by the emotional resonance of the natural world. This is how symbols transcend time and take on new life.