Velvet panel c. 1800 - 1900

This striking velvet panel, now residing in Minneapolis, is a testament to the enduring power of symbols across cultures. Dominating the composition, we see the diamond motif. This simple geometric shape, rendered in the fabric's weave, carries deep significance. Consider its echo in ancient art, representing the eye, a symbol of divine protection and omniscience. We see its recurrence in the lozenge patterns of archaic Greece. The diamond reappears in diverse cultural contexts and epochs, from the woven textiles of South America to the heraldic emblems of medieval Europe. It undergoes a constant metamorphosis, mirroring the collective hopes and anxieties of each era. The presence of the diamond motif in this panel, rendered with a subtle yet impactful artistry, evokes the idea of interconnectedness. It reminds us of the enduring human desire to find meaning in the world around us, and points to the non-linear and cyclical progression of symbols through time.