Allegorie op de Vrede van Aken, 1748 1749

This is Simon Fokke’s etching, "Allegory of the Peace of Aachen," made in 1748. Notice the dominant symbol of an angel with a trumpet, a motif deeply rooted in Western art as a herald of significant announcements, here proclaiming peace. Consider how this symbol echoes through history, from biblical depictions of archangels to its secular use in triumphal arches, always signaling a moment of profound transformation. The trumpet's call resonates beyond mere auditory experience; it evokes a primal, almost instinctual response to change and renewal. Think of how this same symbol appears in other contexts, perhaps in military settings or religious scenes. Its evolution reflects humanity's persistent need to mark pivotal moments with emotionally charged symbols. This etching thus engages viewers on a subconscious level, tapping into collective memories and cultural narratives, reminding us that even in the wake of conflict, the human spirit yearns for harmony. This non-linear, cyclical progression of the symbol of the trumpet transcends time.