Gekostumeerde optocht van 1841: ruiters (blad X) 1841

This anonymous artwork depicts a costumed procession in 1841 using ink on paper. The dominant visual symbol here is the lion, emblazoned on flags, shields, and horse coverings, signifying courage, nobility, and royalty. The lion motif, dating back to ancient Mesopotamia, appears in diverse cultural contexts, from the biblical emblem of the Tribe of Judah to the heraldic symbol of Richard the Lionheart. Over time, it’s evolved from a symbol of raw power to an icon of regal authority and national identity. One cannot help but notice how the lion has been a recurring figure in the human psyche, its roaring presence stirring up a mixture of awe, fear, and respect. This potent imagery engages viewers on a subconscious level, tapping into primal instincts and collective memories of power, protection, and territoriality. The cyclical progression of the lion symbol, resurfacing across centuries and cultures, reminds us of the enduring human fascination with strength, leadership, and the primal forces that shape our world.