Fenestral Abstraction c. 1951

Robert Joseph Massey created this etching, titled Fenestral Abstraction. The head of a man is juxtaposed with window motifs cut out from the darkness, offering glimpses into interior scenes, hinting at the subject's inner world. The window motif, a symbol of introspection, has appeared across cultures and eras, from Renaissance paintings to modern literature. Consider the Dutch Masters, who often used windows as a means to invite the viewer into the private lives of their subjects. Massey uses these symbols to connect the outer world with the inner psyche. Windows are apertures to the soul. The placement of a hand on the subject’s head also evokes contemplation. The image's psychological depth comes from the contrast between the sharp lines of the windows and the softer contours of the face, inviting us to explore the complexities of human consciousness. The symbols resonate on a deeper level, tapping into our shared experiences and collective unconscious. They echo through time, resurfacing in altered forms, each bearing new layers of meaning.