Boy with Sword 

James Ensor sketched this "Boy with Sword" with ink. Observe how the sword—a symbol of power, justice, and defense—takes on a peculiar life. The sword motif is not unique to Ensor; its legacy winds back through time. Consider ancient Roman sculptures, where emperors brandished swords as emblems of authority. Reflect on medieval tapestries depicting chivalric knights, their swords promising protection and order. Yet, here, the sword is wielded by a child. This juxtaposition invites contemplation. The boy's grasp on the sword is a psychological mirror, reflecting humanity’s enduring, perhaps innate, fascination with power. It is the image of youthful energy, a psychological symbol of aspiration and latent potential. The meaning of the sword is constantly evolving, with each artist imbuing it with new significance. It speaks to the eternal dance between innocence and experience, and the human quest for control.