Portret van Gerard Herman Broos, 15 maanden oud Possibly 1903 - 1926

This photograph by Peter Clausing captures young Gerard Herman Broos, a mere fifteen months old. Observe the child’s gaze, direct and solemn, a stark contrast to the innocence we expect. This motif of the infant, imbued with an almost knowing expression, echoes through art history. Consider the countless depictions of the Christ Child, often portrayed with a similar gravity, a premonition of the weight of his destiny. This isn't merely about religious iconography; it's a deeper, almost Jungian archetype. The child, the symbol of potential, yet burdened, even haunted, by the knowledge of future suffering. This image resonates with our collective unconscious, tapping into primal fears and hopes surrounding innocence and destiny. Such a composition evokes a powerful emotional response, engaging the viewer on a subconscious level. This cyclical progression is how symbols resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings in different historical contexts.