Two Models of Diagonal Framing c. 1822

Here, we observe two models of diagonal framing, crafted anonymously and presented in wood. The ladder, a seemingly simple structure, is rich in symbolic weight. Throughout history, the ladder motif bridges the earthly and the divine. Think of Jacob's Ladder in Genesis, a symbol of spiritual ascent, connecting heaven and earth, and the soul's journey towards enlightenment. Similarly, in ancient cultures, ladders appeared in funerary contexts, aiding the deceased in their journey to the afterlife. Now, consider the diagonal supports in the upper model, which form a series of crosses. The cross, a symbol of intersection, sacrifice, and redemption, has permeated art and culture for centuries. Its appearance here adds layers of meaning, perhaps unconsciously, evoking notions of stability and enduring strength. Observe how this emblem of ascension and structural integrity, through its diagonal elements and cruciform shapes, echoes across time, engaging our collective memory and inviting a profound psychological experience.