Portret van Cornelis Tromp 1675 - 1683

This engraving, made by Alexander Browne, captures Cornelis Tromp, the Baronet Lieutenant Admiral of Holland and Freesland. Dominating the scene is the cannon, not merely a piece of military hardware, but a symbol of power, virility, and dominance. The cannon carries echoes of ancient symbols of strength and authority, like the scepter or thunderbolt of Zeus. In Renaissance art, we see similar objects used to convey power, but here, the cannon takes center stage, reflecting the growing importance of military might in the 17th century. This symbol of force is not static; it evolves, reflecting the changing values of society. The cannon evokes a primal sense of awe and fear, engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. This engraving encapsulates the non-linear progression of symbols, constantly resurfacing and evolving across time, and adapting to new meanings in shifting historical contexts.