Dieren 1843

This lithograph from 1843, titled Dieren, presents a series of animal scenes, each imbued with cultural weight. Take, for instance, the lion, upon which a figure sits, evoking images of power and dominance. Consider how this echoes ancient Egyptian depictions of royalty, where lions symbolized strength and were often associated with pharaohs. The motif migrates through time, appearing in heraldry and classical sculpture, always carrying connotations of authority. Even in Jan Schuitemaker's relatively simple rendering, this image taps into our collective memory, subconsciously resonating with historical and mythological narratives. The emotional power of such symbols is immense, engaging viewers on a profound level, bridging centuries through shared visual language. Notice the non-linear progression of symbols like the lion, constantly resurfacing and evolving through history.