Deel van de optocht, nr. 25 en 26 1559 - 1619

This engraving by Joannes van Doetechum, dating back to the 16th century, captures a procession, highlighting symbols of power. Notice the heraldic eagles emblazoned on the robes. These are not mere decorations; the eagle, especially when doubled as it is here, historically represents imperial authority, harking back to ancient Roman standards. The eagle motif resurfaces across centuries and cultures. From the Roman Empire to the Holy Roman Empire and beyond, this symbol has been adopted and adapted to signify dominion and divine right. Its presence evokes a sense of continuity and ambition, a visual echo resonating through history. Observe also the elaborate horse trappings, bearing similar emblems. Horses themselves have been symbols of power and status, but here, adorned with imperial insignia, their symbolic potency is amplified. Such displays of visual grandeur, tapping into our collective memory, serve to impress and awe, engaging viewers on a subconscious level.