C'est pourtant la que j'ai gravé mon chiffre ... c. 19th century

This lithograph by Honoré Daumier depicts a man gazing up at a tree, reflecting on carving his initials into it during a past love. The tree itself becomes a silent witness, an enduring symbol of nature intertwined with human emotion. The act of carving one's initials into a tree echoes through time, resonating with ancient practices of marking territory or commemorating events. We see this impulse mirrored in classical pastoral scenes, where shepherds inscribe verses on tree trunks, immortalizing their love. Consider how the tree, a symbol of life and growth, contrasts with the transient nature of human relationships. This interplay evokes a sense of melancholy, reminding us of the ephemeral nature of passion and the inevitable passage of time. It's a poignant reflection on memory, loss, and the enduring power of symbols to evoke deep emotions and subconscious associations. This image speaks to us about how our memories intertwine with the natural world.