Franse haan aangevallen door de geallieerden, 1708 1708

This print by Carel Allard, made in 1708, allegorically depicts the political turmoil of the time. Central to the image is the French rooster, or "Franse haan," emblematic of France, being assailed by a host of animals. Notice the lion, often a symbol of courage and royalty, here bearing a sword, and the eagle, potent with imperial significance, both attacking the rooster. These symbols carry deep historical weight, evoking images of power struggles across ages. Consider how the lion, for instance, appears in ancient heraldry, projecting authority. Over time it resurfaces, evolving in meaning yet retaining its association with strength. The scene is emotionally charged; the attack on the rooster stirs up subconscious feelings of conflict. This isn't merely an illustration, but a window into the collective anxieties of a continent at war. The power of such imagery lies in its ability to tap into our primal understanding of dominance. The cyclical dance of symbols like these reminds us of history's non-linear progression, as motifs resurface, evolve, and gain new life.