Gezicht op de Anspachlaan te Brussel 1888

James Ensor created this etching of the Anspachlaan in Brussels, capturing a moment frozen in time. The building, with its repetitive windows and awnings, is more than just a structure; it's a vessel carrying echoes of history. Consider the facade, reminiscent of classical architecture, yet stripped down and replicated. These windows, uniform and gazing outward, recall the 'window' motif in art history, representing both enclosure and a portal to the world. From Romanesque arches to Renaissance fenestration, the window is a signifier of light, perspective, and societal structure, each era adapting its form to reflect evolving cultural values. The awnings below, however, add a layer of impermanence, a fleeting commercial element against the solid stone. Think of them as theatrical curtains, a stage for the daily dramas of urban life. Ensor's etching invites us to explore these recurring motifs, acknowledging the passage of time while recognizing the enduring spirit of human expression embedded within the urban landscape.