Wildbach in einem Gebirgstal zwischen hohen Hängen, vorne Zweige von Heckenrosen 1817

Carl Philipp Fohr created this landscape drawing with ink, depicting a mountain stream and rose bushes, though its creation date is unknown. The rose, often linked to Venus, goddess of love, embodies themes of beauty and the ephemeral nature of life. In ancient Rome, roses symbolized secrecy and were often placed above council chambers, a practice from which we derive the expression "sub rosa," meaning "under the rose." These motifs were commonly used, for example, in Botticelli's paintings. Here, the wild roses contrast with the rough terrain, underscoring a powerful force: the subconscious desire to find beauty amidst chaos. This interplay reminds me of the human tendency to seek pleasure and aesthetic satisfaction, even—or especially—when confronted with the most challenging aspects of existence. The cyclical progression of symbols such as the rose reminds us of their power to resurface, evolve, and gain new significance across history.