Coat-of-Arms, with two lions c. 16th century

Curator: This is Thomas de Leu's "Coat-of-Arms, with two lions." De Leu was active at the turn of the 17th century. Editor: It's striking how those lions dominate the composition, so regal and fierce. What kind of symbolism are we looking at? Curator: Well, lions traditionally symbolize courage and nobility, fitting for a coat of arms. But notice the detailed rendering – the texture of their manes, the precise lines of the engraving. De Leu was a master of his craft, part of a network of printmakers who circulated images widely. Editor: And that central emblem, the stylized flower? It looks almost like an ancient sun symbol, adding another layer of meaning. Was this a commission, a way for a family to project power and lineage? Curator: Likely. These emblems were carefully constructed, meant to communicate status and identity. The materials themselves – the paper, the ink, the printing press – were all part of that process of constructing and disseminating power. Editor: Fascinating how so much history is embedded in this relatively small print. Curator: Yes, a testament to the enduring power of both image and material.