Vijver in Bad Bertrich, Rijnland-Palts, Duitsland c. 1880 - 1910

This evocative photograph of Vijver in Bad Bertrich, Rijnland-Palts, was captured by Léon & Lévy. Here, water acts as a mirror, reflecting the dense forest and sky, blurring the boundary between the real and the reflected. The motif of water as a mirror has ancient roots, appearing in myths like that of Narcissus, who, captivated by his reflection, wasted away. It’s a recurring symbol found across cultures, from ancient Greek pottery to Renaissance paintings. The reflected image reminds us of the dual nature of existence. Just as Narcissus was drawn to his own image, we too are often drawn to reflections of ourselves, our desires, and our fears. In this image, one can observe the symbolism of the forest as a representation of the unconscious mind. The forest, dense and somewhat impenetrable, invites contemplation, and the water's reflection offers a doubled perspective on the self and the world. The photograph captures a moment of tranquility, yet it subtly evokes the introspective journey, mirroring the psychological depths within us all.