Portret van Lt. Generaal A.F. Meyer 1867

Cornelis Stephanus Roos rendered this portrait of Lieutenant General A.F. Meyer in delicate pencil strokes. Meyer is adorned with military regalia, symbols of rank and honor that echo across centuries. Consider, for instance, the medals pinned to Meyer’s chest. These tokens of valor, often star-shaped or cruciform, are descendants of ancient victory wreaths, mirroring the laurels given to Roman generals or the golden torcs worn by Celtic warriors. Each medal, a concentrated burst of symbolic weight, transcends its material form. Observe how such symbols persist and morph. The cross, initially a symbol of profound suffering, becomes a mark of distinction, adorning the chests of military leaders. This transformation isn't merely historical; it stirs something deep within us. The sight of these symbols evokes a sense of collective memory, a subconscious recognition of power, duty, and sacrifice. This is not merely a portrait of one man but a meditation on the enduring power of symbols, forever entwined with our deepest emotions and cultural narratives.