Obernhof an der Lahn 1876

Peter Becker rendered this view of Obernhof an der Lahn in delicate watercolor. At its heart, a collection of trees dominates the composition. The trees, standing tall and proud, have been symbols of life and growth for centuries. Consider the Tree of Life, a motif that recurs across cultures, from ancient Mesopotamian art to the Kabbalistic Tree. These arboreal images offer a connection between the earthly and the divine. Similarly, the trees in Becker's landscape evoke notions of natural harmony and spiritual connection. This watercolor landscape touches something deep within us. It stirs feelings of longing, a desire to connect with nature. The image shows the psychological impact of nature on the human soul. The forest has always had this dual nature for us: It is the place of refuge, but also of lurking danger. This dual feeling is also shown here in Becker’s landscape.