Vandalen 1712 - 1714

This print depicts a Vandal warrior, likely made to represent or commemorate the historic tribe. He is adorned with armor, shield and halberd; symbols of strength and readiness for battle that recur across different cultures. Consider the shield, a motif found as far back as ancient Greece and Rome. More than mere protection, it symbolizes defense, unity, and collective identity. Notice how the patterns on the shield are reminiscent of the geometric designs found in early tribal art, echoing symbols of power and belonging. The warrior's stance evokes the ancient Roman statues of emperors and generals: a connection that lends him an aura of authority and timelessness. These symbols invite us to contemplate the enduring human fascination with strength, protection, and identity. These archetypes are not confined to a single time or place; they continually resurface, evolving and adapting, each time resonating with new layers of meaning, reflecting our collective fears, aspirations, and the ever-changing currents of cultural memory.