Margaretha van Valois bij een balustrade c. 1841s

This print of Margaretha van Valois, created by Louis Lassalle, presents us with a vision of French royalty set against a classical backdrop. Dominating the scene is Margaretha herself, adorned in opulent fabrics, and positioned beside a balustrade, near an ornate vase. This recurring motif of a vase, often found in close proximity to women, can be seen throughout art history—from ancient Greek amphorae depicting goddesses to Renaissance portraits symbolizing virtue. The vase, in its essence, embodies the containment and cultivation of life, mirroring the perceived roles and responsibilities of women in society. In other contexts, this symbol could be interpreted as fertility, or even mourning, when toppled over. The enduring presence of the vase motif throughout the ages demonstrates how cultural memory and subconscious processes shape both the creation and interpretation of art, engaging viewers on a profound, emotional level. As symbols progress through time, the vase takes on new meanings depending on the society.