Bomenlaan langs boerderijen 1888 - 1889

In this pencil sketch, Alexander Shilling captures a tree-lined lane alongside farmhouses, evoking a sense of pastoral simplicity. The lane—a recurring motif in art—symbolizes not just a physical path, but a journey through life. Consider the image of lanes in classical art, such as those depicted in bucolic scenes, often representing a return to nature and a simpler, more virtuous existence. The lane motif is deeply embedded in our collective memory. It transcends mere representation, engaging our emotions on a profound level. The lane—like life—is never linear, but cyclical. It is a symbol that persists, evolving and re-emerging with altered nuances across time.