Plate 4: two pilgrims observing ruins to right, one pointing towards the right, a shepherd and a herd of cattle in center background, from 'Various landscapes' (Divers paysages) 1636 - 1646

Stefano della Bella etched "Plate 4: Various Landscapes" in the 17th century, and it presents us with potent symbols of time and transience. Dominating the scene are the weathered ruins, emblems of lost grandeur, set against the eternal backdrop of nature. Two pilgrims stand observing these ruins, a gesture of contemplation over the passage of time. The motif of ruins is not new; we see echoes of it in Piranesi’s dramatic depictions and even earlier, in the idealized landscapes of the Renaissance. Ruins evoke a sense of melancholy, reminding us of the ephemeral nature of human achievements. Note how the pointing gesture of one pilgrim directs our gaze, a visual cue found in countless artworks across history. This simple act of pointing carries profound weight—it is the hand of Saint John guiding us to Christ, or the allegorical figure directing us towards truth. It speaks to our subconscious desire for direction and meaning. This act becomes a powerful emotional trigger, engaging viewers on a deep, psychological level. Della Bella invites us to reflect on how symbols persist, evolve, and continually reshape our understanding of the world.