Moeder met kind 1683

This is an engraving called 'Mother with Child' by Jan van Somer, created in 1683. Here, a mother sits with her child, surrounded by potent symbols of prosperity and affection. The presence of putti, or cherubic figures, is telling. These figures hearken back to classical antiquity, where they represented love and innocence. Here, they add an allegorical dimension, invoking feelings of divine protection and familial joy. Even the lively dog mirrors humanity’s bonds with nature. Consider how these motifs reappear across time. We see echoes of such cherubic figures in Renaissance paintings, and even in modern advertisements. The image of the dog as a loyal companion mirrors similar depictions of the same animal since antiquity. These symbols resonate because they tap into deeply ingrained emotions and cultural memories. This image is more than just a portrait; it's a visual encoding of enduring human values and a testament to their timeless appeal.