Rocky Quarter c. 17th century

Editor: Allart van Everdingen's "Rocky Quarter" is a lovely etching. It feels both wild and serene. What do you see in this image? Curator: The symbolism of the forest as a space of the unknown, the unconscious, is strong here. Note the dominant tree, reaching out, almost protective. It is a powerful, recurring image. Editor: Protective, yes, but also maybe slightly ominous? Curator: Precisely. The forest has been a place of both refuge and fear across cultures. Does the prominent rock reinforce this feeling? What memories does this artwork evoke for you? Editor: Now I’m thinking about fairytales, definitely a bit ominous. I never considered the rock’s meaning! Curator: Every element carries echoes of our collective past.