Het nieuw en vermaekelyk gansen-spel, in wat maniere en hoe men het zelve spelen moet c. 1795 - 1798

This is Charles de Goesin-Disbecq’s etching, a game board titled *Het nieuw en vermaekelyk gansen-spel*, or "The New and Amusing Game of Goose." The board is dominated by the image of the goose, repeated around the spiral track, which has been culturally symbolic since ancient times. In ancient Egypt, the goose was revered, associated with the solar deity Ra, embodying vigilance and motherhood, as well as representing the soul. This symbolism migrated across cultures; in Rome, geese were sacred to Juno, serving as sentinels, famously warning of the Gallic invasion. The goose, therefore, embodies both protective and spiritual qualities. Observe how this motif has resurfaced, evolving into a game piece, a symbol of luck, journey and return. It touches upon the collective memory of ancient symbols, engaging us subconsciously with its deep-rooted, evolving narrative.