Allegorie op Vrijheid, Gelijkheid, en Broederschap, 1795 1795

Carel Frederik Bendorp created this allegory on freedom, equality, and brotherhood in 1795. The central figure of Libertas, or Freedom, stands atop a pillar, holding a staff with a pileus—the freedman’s cap. Beside her is Justitia, with scales representing equality. Two men embrace on the right, symbolizing brotherhood. The freedman's cap, often made of felt, dates back to ancient Rome, where it was given to slaves upon their emancipation, signifying their newfound liberty and citizenship. We can see the echo of this gesture in later images of the French Revolution, a potent symbol of liberation from oppression. This motif—the act of claiming one's freedom—has resurfaced throughout history, embodying a collective yearning for autonomy. This act of liberation speaks to the deep, psychological need for self-determination, a powerful force that shapes our cultural and political landscapes. The cyclical progression of this symbol highlights how it resurfaces, evolves, and takes on new meanings in different historical contexts.