Grand place, Brussels before 1866

This albumen print captures the Grand Place in Brussels, a scene dominated by architectural facades adorned with elaborate sculptural details. The prevalence of guildhalls, with their distinctive emblems, tells a story of civic pride. Consider the recurring motif of the lion, a symbol of strength and sovereignty. We see it not only here, but also in ancient Mesopotamian reliefs and Renaissance heraldry. This motif is a projection of power, invoking primal, psychological associations with dominance and protection. In the collective consciousness, the lion embodies the ideals of courage and leadership, qualities desired by those who commissioned these buildings. Notice how each symbol, like the lion, is imbued with a memory that transcends time. Its meaning has metamorphosed, adapting to different cultural contexts. The resurgence of such symbols reveals our enduring fascination with the past and the subconscious forces that shape our visual language.