The Four Elements and Ages of Man: Fire and Childhood

This painting is part of a series of four representing the personification of the four elements and the four ages of man. The first painting of the series combines fire with childhood. A boy, cheeks puffed, is blowing on an ember so as to light a torch. The ember in the tongs and the young flame on the wick represent the only source of light.

Suggested listening (streaming mp3, 18 minutes):

George Frideric Handel: Fireworks Music