Studieblad met vrouwen en kinderen c. 1856 - 1861

Here we have a page of sketches depicting women and children, rendered by Cornelis Springer using graphite. Observe the recurring motif of the mother and child. It is a symbol deeply rooted in human consciousness, a universal echo of the Madonna and Child. This archetypal image, resonating through centuries, has served as a potent symbol of nurturing and protection. Consider the ancient roots of the mother goddess figures, embodiments of fertility and life-giving power. These images resurface in Renaissance art, transformed yet still recognizable, in the tender depictions of Mary cradling the infant Jesus. The sketches present a softer, secular echo of maternal care. The cyclical nature of these symbols reveals how deeply ingrained they are in our collective memory. Springer taps into this vein, reminding us of the enduring power of these ancient archetypes. The emotional resonance of the image engages viewers on a subconscious level. It evokes feelings of warmth, security, and the timeless bond between mother and child.