Twee vrouwen en een man met een degen in een interieur c. 1749 - 1799

This drawing by Jacques Le Roy presents an interior scene with two women and a man holding a sword. The candle, prominently held, is a symbol laden with meaning. Light, as illuminated by the candle, has always served as a representation of knowledge, hope, and divine presence. It combats the darkness, both literal and metaphorical, echoing through history. The motif of the guiding light is found in myriad forms, such as the Greek myth of Psyche, who used a lamp to unveil the true form of Eros, against the warnings of the god. Similarly, we find the Madonna depicted carrying a candle as a beacon of purity. Here, the figures appear in ambiguous circumstances. This uncertainty underscores the emotional and psychological tension of the scene. This flickering flame, laden with historical weight, is a powerful force that engages viewers on a deep, subconscious level. The candle has illuminated countless narratives, each time resurfacing, evolving, and taking on new meanings in different historical contexts.