Portret van Floris III, graaf van Holland 1650

This engraving from around 1650 by Cornelis Visscher depicts Floris III, Count of Holland. Immediately, one’s eye is drawn to the heraldic lion displayed prominently. It's a symbol of courage and royalty, deeply rooted in medieval heraldry. We find this lion, or variations of it, emblazoned on shields and banners across Europe, from the British Isles to Scandinavia. The lion embodies strength, leadership, and protection. Yet, it's fascinating how this symbol, originally meant to evoke bravery, can also be interpreted as aggressive and domineering. Consider the Lion Gate at Mycenae, dating back to the 13th century BC. These lions, though stylized, guard the city's entrance, demonstrating the enduring power of the lion as a symbol of authority. It resonates with a collective memory of strength and valor, triggering deep psychological responses of both awe and fear. This symbol has undergone countless transformations, each era imprinting new layers of meaning onto it.