The Morning 1732 - 1767

Johann Georg Wagner created this watercolor, titled 'The Morning', around the mid-18th century. Notice the subtle, yet potent symbolism of the rising sun. It is a universal emblem of rebirth, renewal, and enlightenment. This motif appears across cultures, from ancient Egyptian sun-god Ra to the Roman Sol Invictus, each embodying power and the cyclical nature of life. Consider how this image parallels depictions of dawn in classical paintings, often associated with hope and new beginnings. The depiction of morning, with the sun peeking over the horizon, carries a psychological weight, tapping into our collective longing for fresh starts. This same symbol can also be seen in religious art, like the resurrection of Christ, which employs dawn as a symbol of overcoming darkness and the promise of eternal life. This enduring motif connects us to the deep, subconscious layers of human experience, highlighting our intrinsic hope for brighter days.