Twee kandelaars en een vaas op een hoge poot 1817

This delicate drawing by Pietro Ruga depicts designs for candlesticks and a vase, showcasing the neoclassical fascination with form and symmetry. The inclusion of classical figures like the sphinxes at the base of the rightmost candlestick is a powerful symbol, echoing ancient wisdom and guardianship, while the garlands, masks, and floral arrangements, common in Roman art, speak to themes of celebration, sacrifice, and the cyclical nature of life. Consider how similar motifs appear in Renaissance paintings and even in the architecture of grand European palaces; observe the recurring human figures intertwined with vegetation, recalling ancient myths and fertility rites. These motifs, like the ever-watchful eyes of the sphinx, tap into a collective memory, subconsciously resonating with our primal understanding of power, protection, and the passage of time. Note the masks and how they echo the ancient Greek theater: these faces are charged with emotion and dramatic presence. This visual language evolved and adapted throughout history, resurfacing during the Renaissance and continuing to influence decorative arts to this day.