Meaning: Georges Rouault, a French painter and printmaker, is recognized for his profound and emotive works that often explored themes of religion, human suffering, and the human condition. The quote, "Nothing is old, nothing is new, save the light of grace underneath which beats a human heart. The way of feeling, of understanding, of loving; the way of seeing the country, the faces that your father saw, that your mother knew. The rest is chimerical," encapsulates Rouault's philosophical and spiritual perspective on the timeless essence of human experience and the transitory nature of the external world.

Rouault's assertion that "nothing is old, nothing is new" reflects his belief in the enduring and universal aspects of human existence. He emphasizes the constancy of the "light of grace" that resides within each individual, regardless of the passage of time or the changing external circumstances. This notion underscores the idea that fundamental human emotions, perceptions, and connections remain fundamentally unchanged across generations and cultures. The "light of grace" symbolizes the divine and spiritual essence that transcends temporal distinctions, serving as a unifying force that binds humanity together.

Furthermore, Rouault's emphasis on "the way of feeling, of understanding, of loving" underscores the significance of inner experiences and emotional depth in shaping the human journey. His words convey a sense of the timeless and universal nature of human emotions, emphasizing that the capacity to feel, empathize, and love has been an integral part of human existence throughout history. By highlighting the continuity of these emotional pathways, Rouault suggests that they form the core of human existence, remaining unchanged amidst the ever-changing external world.

Rouault's reference to "seeing the country, the faces that your father saw, that your mother knew" reflects his recognition of the enduring influence of familial and cultural heritage on one's perception and understanding of the world. He acknowledges the significance of ancestral connections and the intergenerational transmission of experiences, memories, and traditions. By invoking the imagery of familiar landscapes and faces, Rouault emphasizes the timeless continuity of human connections and the enduring impact of personal and collective histories on individual consciousness.

In contrast, Rouault dismisses "the rest" as "chimerical," suggesting that the transient and illusory aspects of the external world hold little significance in comparison to the eternal and immutable aspects of the human spirit. This perspective aligns with Rouault's broader artistic and philosophical preoccupations, as his works often delved into the existential and spiritual dimensions of human existence, transcending the fleeting and superficial aspects of the material world.

Overall, Georges Rouault's quote encapsulates his profound insights into the timeless and universal aspects of human experience, emphasizing the enduring significance of inner emotions, familial connections, and spiritual grace. His words invite contemplation on the essence of human existence, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the timeless elements that unite individuals across time and space. Through his art and philosophy, Rouault sought to illuminate the enduring truths that underlie the human condition, offering a timeless perspective on the nature of existence and the unchanging core of humanity.