1668 - 1716
Paneel met rond medaillon
Susanne Maria von Sandrart
1658 - 1716Location
RijksmuseumListen to curator's interpretation
Curatorial notes
Susanne Maria von Sandrart crafted this panel with a round medallion, showcasing a wealth of classical motifs. At its heart, a figure reminiscent of Jupiter hands a shield to a smaller figure who may be interpreted as Mars, thus evoking themes of divine authority and martial power. These motifs are framed by putti, symbols of innocence and love, and a figure of Abundantia, who holds a cornucopia, and a laurel crown, emblems of prosperity and triumph. The sphinxes at the base, which represent wisdom and mystery, are recurrent in ancient Egyptian art. Observe how such symbols migrate across time, resurfacing during the Renaissance, imbued with renewed classical significance. The image is designed to stir feelings of nostalgia and grandeur, as we find echoes of ancient virtues and ideals, demonstrating the cyclical nature of cultural memory.