Father Time Print, William Strang, 1899 – Magic Illustration, Fairytale Poster, Fantasy Art, Wings, Clock, Scythe, Masonic Symbol, Esoteric Picture, Magic Art #283

This Father Time Print is a reproduction of an engraving by William Strang, created in 1899 and catalogued as Father Time (Strang No. 467). The figure of Father Time, an ancient symbol with roots in mythology, Freemasonry, and esoteric traditions, embodies the relentless passage of time, the inevitability of mortality, and the hidden wisdom carried through the ages.

The Keeper Of Time And Eternal Wisdom

Depicted with wings, a long beard, and a scythe, Father Time sits solemnly with an open book, symbolizing both the record of all human deeds and the wisdom of history. The hourglass or sundial beneath him emphasizes the fleeting nature of existence, while his angelic wings recall his dual nature — mortal limitation and divine transcendence.

This artwork is not merely an illustration, but a powerful esoteric emblem often used in Masonic rituals, occult philosophy, and symbolic art, where Father Time represents the mysteries of destiny, mortality, and eternal renewal.

Available as a fine art print on antiqued paper for a historical look, or on canvas for a dramatic mystical presence. Delivered unframed, ready for custom framing to suit your esoteric, fantasy, or symbolic décor.

Symbolism and Esoteric Meaning

• Father Time. – Archetype of the passage of time, mortality, and eternal cycles.

• The Scythe. – Instrument of harvest, symbolizing death, transformation, and rebirth.

• The Book. – Represents recorded wisdom, the Book of Life, and the mysteries of destiny.

• The Wings. – Indicate divine swiftness and the spiritual dimension of time beyond the earthly.

• The Sundial/Clock. – Reminder of the finite nature of existence, urging vigilance and wisdom.

• Masonic Symbolism. – In Freemasonry, Father Time is often depicted with a weeping virgin and broken column, symbolizing the fragility of life and the hope of eternal truth.

Together, these elements reveal Father Time as both a grim messenger and a keeper of eternal wisdom, holding the balance between mortality and transcendence.

Historical and Cultural Context

Father Time is a personification with roots in Greek mythology, identified with Chronos, the primordial god of time, and later conflated with Saturn in Roman culture. In medieval and Renaissance art, he came to embody the unstoppable flow of time, often shown with a scythe and hourglass.

In esoteric and Masonic traditions, Father Time became a figure of initiation — teaching adepts about mortality, humility, and the eternal nature of the soul. Strang’s 1899 engraving captures this archetype in a dark yet profound vision, placing him as a guardian of wisdom at the threshold of eternity.

Why Choose This Print?

• Authentic reproduction of William Strang’s Father Time (1899).

• Features deep Masonic, occult, and esoteric symbolism.

• Available on antiqued paper or canvas.

• Delivered unframed – ready for custom framing.

• Perfect for occultists, Masons, and scholars of symbolism.

• A rare cultural artifact linking mythology, Freemasonry, and art nouveau mysticism.

Perfect For

• Collectors of occult and symbolic prints.

• Practitioners of Freemasonry, Hermeticism, and esoteric philosophy.

• Students of mythology, art history, and symbolism.

• Decorators of occult, fantasy, or academic interiors.

• Unique gifts for seekers of hidden wisdom and timeless truth.

More Than Just An Occult Print

This Father Time Print (#283) is more than an artwork – it is a portrait of eternity itself. With his scythe, wings, and open book, Father Time reminds us of the brevity of life and the enduring pursuit of wisdom. Displaying it connects you to the mystical traditions of Freemasonry, mythology, and esoteric art, making it both a meditation piece and a striking element of symbolic décor.

Canvas vs. Hand-Made Paper — Print Comparison Guide