Kinders nu al weer an Coerazie / Hier hebt gy weer een raar Pottazie 1725 - 1780

This broadside print, made by Johannes Kannewet in Amsterdam, is a curious collection of symbols and objects. Hearts and swords, musical instruments, cooking pots and tools, all jostle for space on the page. Notice the recurring motif of crossed objects. We see crossed swords, crossed oars, even crossed pairs of eyes! This motif echoes through time, from ancient heraldry to modern-day warning signs. The act of crossing can represent conflict, intersection, or a point of decision. It is a powerful visual shorthand that speaks to our subconscious understanding of opposition and choice. Consider also the image of the eye. Eyes are a recurring symbol in art, acting as a window into the soul. Here they appear as a pair, suggesting observation, judgement, and a silent awareness. This harks back to ancient Egyptian art and the Eye of Horus, a symbol of protection and royal power. Symbols like these reveal how the past is always present, subtly shaping our perceptions and emotional responses to the world around us.