Meaning: The quote "Close your bodily eye, that you may see your picture first with the eye of the spirit. Then bring to light what you have seen in the darkness, that its effect may work back, from without to within" by Caspar David Friedrich, a renowned German Romantic landscape painter, encapsulates a profound insight into the act of perception and the inner workings of the human spirit. Friedrich, who is known for his contemplative and emotionally charged landscapes, often infused his works with spiritual and philosophical themes. This quote reflects his belief in the importance of looking beyond the surface and tapping into the deeper essence of things.

The first part of the quote, "Close your bodily eye, that you may see your picture first with the eye of the spirit," suggests a shift in perception from the physical to the spiritual. Friedrich is advocating for a form of introspection and inner vision that transcends the limitations of the physical senses. By closing the "bodily eye," one is encouraged to turn inward and perceive the world through the "eye of the spirit." This implies a form of contemplation or meditation, where one seeks to connect with the essence of what is being observed, rather than simply relying on external stimuli.

This concept of seeing with the "eye of the spirit" aligns with Friedrich's own artistic approach. He often depicted landscapes that evoked a sense of the sublime, inviting viewers to contemplate the grandeur and mystery of nature. Through his paintings, Friedrich aimed to elicit an emotional and spiritual response, prompting viewers to engage with the profound aspects of existence beyond mere visual observation.

The second part of the quote, "Then bring to light what you have seen in the darkness, that its effect may work back, from without to within," delves deeper into the transformative power of perception. Here, Friedrich alludes to the process of bringing forth inner revelations into the light of conscious awareness. The act of "bringing to light what you have seen in the darkness" can be interpreted as a metaphor for uncovering hidden truths or insights that have been perceived through the "eye of the spirit."

Once these inner revelations are brought to light, Friedrich suggests that their effect may "work back, from without to within." This notion implies a cyclical and transformative process, where the insights gained from deep introspection have the potential to influence and enrich one's inner world. By allowing these insights to permeate from "without to within," individuals can experience a profound internal shift as a result of their heightened perception and understanding of the world around them.

In essence, Friedrich's quote encapsulates the idea of transcending the superficial and engaging in a deeper, more contemplative form of perception. It speaks to the transformative power of introspection and the potential for inner revelations to shape one's worldview and inner being. This philosophical insight not only sheds light on Friedrich's artistic philosophy but also offers a timeless contemplation on the nature of perception and the human spirit.

In conclusion, Caspar David Friedrich's quote "Close your bodily eye, that you may see your picture first with the eye of the spirit. Then bring to light what you have seen in the darkness, that its effect may work back, from without to within" offers a profound perspective on the act of perception and the transformative power of inner vision. It encourages individuals to look beyond the surface and tap into the deeper essence of things, leading to a profound internal shift and a heightened understanding of the world. This quote not only reflects Friedrich's artistic philosophy but also serves as a timeless contemplation on the nature of perception and the human spirit.