Panel c. 1893

This "Panel" was printed by the Swasiland Print Works between 1850 and 1893. The pattern showcases stylized protea flowers and intricate foliage rendered in cool blues. The protea, native to South Africa, is an emblem of transformation and courage. We find echoes of the protea’s symbolism in other resilient floral motifs across cultures. Consider the lotus in ancient Egypt, symbolizing rebirth, or the thistle in Scotland, a protective emblem. These floral symbols tap into our collective memory, evoking deep-seated emotions of hope and resilience. Like the thistle, the protea here bristles with protective leaves. This invites a psychoanalytic interpretation: the plant, acting as a subconscious guardian, offers visual comfort and protection against unseen threats. The continued recurrence and adaptation of such symbols underscore our innate human need to find strength in the natural world. The protea, in its Swazi context, becomes part of this ever-evolving visual language, a testament to our enduring connection with symbols of resilience.