Scène uit Assepoester 1867

This stereoscopic card by Charles Dauvois captures a scene from Cinderella, brimming with symbols of power and social ascension. The ballroom, adorned with portraits and lit by a grand chandelier, symbolizes status and aspiration. The dancing figures, caught in a delicate ballet, highlight the ritual of courtship and the societal expectations placed on young women. Yet, Cinderella, initially an outsider, embodies the dream of transcending one's origins. The image pulsates with the collective desire for recognition and transformation. Consider the recurring motif of the 'royal gaze,' often depicted in historical and mythological contexts. This gaze is charged with the power to bestow favor or judgment. Just as in ancient depictions of rulers, the prince's gaze singles out Cinderella, transforming her destiny. The deep-seated human longing for social mobility and acceptance continues to fuel the enduring appeal of this timeless fairy tale. Its repeated retelling throughout history underscores the non-linear journey of these symbols.