Het zeilschip America met andere schepen op zee c. 1824 - 1827

Léon Jean Baptiste Sabatier created this engraving of the zeilschip America amidst a sea of other vessels. The ship, a potent symbol of progress, mirrors the ancient Roman ships, vessels laden with cultural exchange and military might. Here, the ship is not merely a mode of transport, but an emblem of national pride, slicing through the waves with unwavering determination. It evokes a sense of adventure and exploration, reminiscent of ancient mariners navigating uncharted waters. Consider how the billowing sails, a classic symbol of divine breath, resemble those found in classical depictions of the goddess Fortuna, who controls destiny. The ship in Sabatier’s engraving thus becomes more than just a vessel; it embodies the cyclical nature of human ambition and the enduring quest for discovery. Its journey continues, echoing through the corridors of time.