Old woman 

Rudolf Hirth du Frênes rendered this drawing of an old woman with pencil on paper. The figure, draped in simple garments, evokes a sense of timelessness. The most striking element is her head covering. This head covering is reminiscent of the veils and wimples worn by women throughout history, from ancient Roman priestesses to medieval nuns, symbolizing modesty, piety, and a connection to the divine. Think of the veiled figures in Renaissance paintings by artists such as Jan van Eyck, and how they represent the status and spiritual devotion of women. Yet, here, the head covering speaks more of humility and the everyday struggles of the working class. This image engages our collective memory, triggering subconscious associations with the archetypal figure of the wise, old woman. This cyclical progression of symbols allows for a deeper understanding of cultural continuity and the recurring patterns of human experience.