Departure 1848 - 1870

David Octavius Hill rendered this ink drawing titled ‘Departure’ in 1848. The figures waving from the shore and aboard the vessel are symbolic of the universal human experience of bidding farewell, echoing across time and cultures. The motif of departure—a boat sailing away—is not unique to this piece. Recall the ancient Greek practice of depicting voyages on pottery, symbolizing life's journey and transitions into the unknown. Over time, this symbol has resurfaced, evolving from literal voyages to metaphors for emotional and spiritual transitions. Consider the psychological impact: the receding boat can stir feelings of loss or anticipation, engaging viewers on a subconscious level by tapping into primal anxieties about abandonment and the unknown. The gesture of waving goodbye, seen throughout history, is a potent expression of human connection. The drawing captures a cyclical progression of symbols, resonating with past and present. It reminds us that while the context changes, the human emotions embedded in these gestures remain a constant, a powerful echo of our shared history.