Iron c. 20th century

These iron artworks, crafted by an anonymous hand, present us with a striking pair of objects. Each features a serpentine form rising from an elongated, leaf-shaped base. The snake motif, so vividly rendered here, winds its way through the history of human symbolism. In ancient Greece, the serpent was associated with healing and medicine, as seen in the staff of Asclepius. Yet, it also carries connotations of chaos and primordial power, as in the biblical story of the Garden of Eden. Consider how these iron snakes, with their poised, almost hypnotic curves, evoke a sense of primal energy. They resonate with our deepest fears and desires, tapping into a collective memory of the serpent as both a symbol of destruction and regeneration. Through their form, these anonymous artworks engage us on a subconscious level, reminding us of the enduring power of ancient symbols. The cyclical progression of this symbol resurfaces and evolves over time, carrying new meanings in different historical contexts.