Banknote motif: panel of lathe work ornament composed of tiny 2s each set in a diamond surrounded by a star 1819 - 1847

This is Cyrus Durand’s “Banknote motif: panel of lathe work ornament composed of tiny 2s each set in a diamond surrounded by a star.” Here we see rows of tiny ‘2’s encased in diamond shapes, each surrounded by a star. The star, a symbol that pierces the darkness, has long guided humanity. Think of the Star of Bethlehem, a beacon of hope, or the stars adorning the crowns of rulers, signifying divine right. The diamond motif, though, is particularly interesting. Encasing the number ‘2’, it’s not just about wealth, but about durability. Diamonds, formed under pressure, become a symbol of resilience, an idea that transcends the material world. One can see echoes of this symbolism in heraldic designs, where geometric patterns convey power and protection. Consider how our ancestors used similar symbols, perhaps in woven tapestries or carved into stone, to ward off misfortune and ensure prosperity. The symbolic combination evokes deep-seated desires for security and stability, engaging us on a primal level. The non-linear progression of this symbol is evident; resurfacing and evolving across history, taking on new meanings in different contexts, ever reflecting our collective hopes and fears.