Sunday, February 13, 2011

art/philosophy



Rembrandt Van Rijn - Philosopher in Meditation (1632)

Located at the Musee du Louvre, dutch artist Rembrandt’s Philosopher in Meditation has always fascinated my senses. The portrait depicts the essence of light captured within the darkness of the room, with only a glint of fire to match the light of the sun. The winding staircase plays a role in capturing the balance between the dark and light sides of the portrait, evidently similar to the yin-and-yang symbol. The metaphysical question of natural power facing the phenomenon of man-made itinerary, such as creating a fire, is pondered by the philosopher.

Perhaps Rembrandt’s theme was to capture the true essence of the natural power of the sun, as the preferred personal choice for himself, while showing that the forces of man could never amount to the power of the sun-rays leaking into the dark room.
This painting is the ideal studying place I would like to have. Peaceful, dark, and inviting to the sun’s beautiful and powerful rays. Such a life that would be.