Mission Bench c. 1939

Emile Cero rendered this drawing of a mission bench. Notice how the sawtooth edges that rhythmically adorn the crest and base of the piece evoke the battlement architecture seen in castles and forts. This design not only reflects a sense of protection and enclosure, but also has its roots in more ancient, symbolic forms. Consider how the zigzag pattern echoes the natural world – think of mountain ranges or waveforms – and how these shapes have been adapted across cultures and eras. We see them repeated in textiles, pottery, and architectural details. The repetition of the sawtooth pattern may seem simple, yet it has a powerful effect, evoking a feeling of guarded space that resonates with our primal need for safety. Such archetypal symbols tap into our collective memory, reminding us of enduring human desires. They can offer a sense of connection and understanding across vast cultural and temporal expanses. We see a recurring motif, an echo of an ancient desire, continually reimagined.