Gevel te Antwerpen before 1881

This photograph captures the facade of a building in Antwerp. We can see figures, both human and grotesque, adorning the structure's façade, echoing the ancient Roman practice of placing masks on buildings to ward off evil spirits and to invite fortune. These faces remind us of the Greek Gorgon Medusa, whose image, when emblazoned on shields and buildings, was meant to petrify enemies and offer protection. Over time, this motif has appeared in various forms, from terrifying masks to more benign, decorative elements, yet it always evokes a sense of primal fear and the subconscious desire for protection. The stone figures, especially the seated women, invoke the classical tradition of caryatids, figures used as architectural support, embodying strength and endurance. These symbols resonate on a deeper psychological level, as they tap into our collective memory and our enduring need for security and protection. Their presence is a silent yet powerful force, engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. This cyclical progression highlights how cultural symbols resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings across different historical contexts.