Landschap met koets before 1815

This landscape with a carriage was etched by Hermanus van Brussel in the late 18th or early 19th century. The carriage, a symbol of travel, trade, and societal connection, harks back to ancient Roman chariots, emblems of power and expansion. I am reminded of how these vehicles have persisted, evolving from instruments of conquest to symbols of leisure and status. In van Brussel's image, the carriage suggests a journey, perhaps mirroring life’s own path, with its unseen destinations and unpredictable turns. Consider, too, the tree—a universal symbol of life and knowledge. Its presence here anchors the scene, providing shade and a sense of rootedness. The image’s serene yet transient nature evokes a deep, often subconscious, longing for stability and connection. This constant cycle of transformation, where motifs resurface, adapt, and gather new meanings in changing historical conditions, truly fascinates me.