Wapen van Cornelius Henricus à Roy 1800 - 1816

This etching, "Wapen van Cornelius Henricus à Roy," was crafted by Reinier Vinkeles, a Dutch artist active in the late 18th century. Within its circular frame, we observe a crest adorned with potent symbols. The horse, both winged above and earthbound below, immediately draws our attention. The horse, since antiquity, has been a symbol of vitality and energy. We can see this imagery in Roman equestrian statues, and it even resonates in the mythical winged Pegasus, embodying the soaring spirit of the human imagination. Here, the horse appears twice; once grounded, suggesting steadfastness, and again with wings, perhaps indicating aspiration. Consider the enduring presence of animal symbols in heraldry. The lion, eagle, or horse—each chosen to invoke attributes of strength, nobility, or courage. Over time, their meanings have subtly shifted, shaped by cultural narratives and collective memory. Such shifts reveal how images are never static but rather dynamic vessels of meaning. Each symbol carries a unique story that evolves and is passed down through history.