Stoplap van gekleurde zijde op katoen. c. 1800 - 1820

This is a cloth skillfully made by A.C. van Duuren, featuring colorful silk on cotton. The most striking element is the repetition of the cross motif, an ancient symbol laden with meaning. The cross, of course, has deep roots in Christian iconography, representing sacrifice and redemption. Yet, its presence here echoes far beyond religious dogma. Think of the ancient sun wheels, or the crossroads in folklore, places of transformation and decision. This symbol's journey through time is a testament to its enduring power, resurfacing in various guises, from the protective amulets of antiquity to the emblems of modern nation-states. Note how these crosses are not uniform. The variations in color and texture evoke a sense of personal expression, reflecting a subconscious desire to imbue the universal symbol with individual identity. This blending of collective memory and individual experience creates a powerful tension, drawing us in to ponder the layers of meaning woven into this cloth. The symbol is not static; it lives, breathes, and evolves with each generation.