Maskerade van de Leidse studenten, 1875 (plaat 21) 1875

Gerardus Johannes Bos created this print, "Maskerade van de Leidse studenten, 1875," depicting a parade of Leiden students. Note the recurrence of symbols. The flags are potent emblems of affiliation and allegiance, which serve as rallying points for collective identity. Flags have long played this role, recalling ancient Roman vexilla or medieval banners. The statue evokes classical antiquity, reminding us of Greek or Roman goddesses embodying ideals of beauty, wisdom, or victory. This gesture of raising a hand is a classical oratorical pose, signifying authority and persuasive communication. We see it echoed through Renaissance paintings, where figures like saints or philosophers use similar gestures to command attention and convey profound truths. This iconography is often associated with enlightenment and intellectual authority. The image shows a non-linear cyclical progression of symbols—a powerful force engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level.