Bay Scene with Sailboat at Anchor (from Sketchbook X) 1885

William Trost Richards captured this bay scene with sailboat at anchor in graphite. Note the prominent cross rising above the landscape. The cross, ubiquitous in Western culture, is heavy with symbolism. It transcends its religious origins. We see it in ancient forms, predating Christianity, as a symbol of the intersection of the earthly and the divine, the meeting point of opposing forces. Consider the alchemical cross, representing the four elements. Over time, the cross has appeared in various guises. It is a potent emblem of suffering, sacrifice, and, ultimately, redemption. It evokes a deeply rooted emotional response, tapping into our collective memory. Its stark presence in Richards's tranquil scene introduces a subtle tension, a reminder of the complexities underlying even the most serene vistas.