Briefkaart aan Philip Zilcken Possibly 1895 - 1896

This Briefkaart aan Philip Zilcken was created by Floris Verster. This unassuming postcard speaks volumes through its official markings. Notice the crowned coat of arms. These symbols of state power are not static; they carry echoes of ancient heraldry, where animals and emblems signified lineage and authority. We see similar heraldic symbols in medieval tapestries and Renaissance paintings, each time adapted to convey the specific power dynamics of the era. Consider the lion, a recurring motif in European heraldry, often symbolizing courage and nobility. But the lion's symbolic meaning has evolved through centuries, from a fierce protector in ancient myths to a regal emblem of national identity. The psychological weight of such symbols taps into a collective memory, evoking feelings of pride, loyalty, and, perhaps, even subconscious fears. The marks on this card, ostensibly mundane, thus become potent reminders of how symbols persist, adapt, and continue to shape our understanding of power and identity across time.