Automne, Peupliers, Eragny 

Camille Pissarro painted this idyllic autumn scene with oil on canvas. Trees, especially those undergoing seasonal change, carry a profound symbolic weight across cultures. Here, the trees, denuded of their summer foliage, signal transition. In classical mythology, trees are often the abode of spirits or deities, embodying life, death, and renewal. The deciduous nature of these trees links them to the cycle of life, mirroring human existence. We see echoes of this in ancient rituals, where trees are central to ceremonies marking seasonal shifts. Consider, for instance, the “axis mundi,” the world tree found in numerous mythologies. These symbols connect the earthly and celestial realms, reflecting our yearning for continuity. Pissarro captures a similar sense of longing, presenting a scene laden with the poignant beauty of nature's eternal cycle. The vibrant colors evoke a powerful emotional response, reminding us of the ephemerality and inherent beauty of life.