Deel van de optocht, nr. 7 1559

Joannes van Doetechum created this etching, "Part of the Procession, No. 7," sometime before 1605. Look closely at the prominence of the lion rampant. It is no accident that this symbol of Flanders dominates the scene, emblazoned on banners and tunics alike. The lion, a symbol resonating with power and sovereignty, traces back to ancient heraldry. Remember, the lion isn't merely an animal. It's a vessel for collective memory, imbued with ancestral courage. Consider how, in centuries past, similar symbols of power have crossed continents, echoing in different cultures and epochs. These symbols trigger deep-seated psychological responses. The sight of the lion inspires feelings of awe and respect that engage the viewer on a subconscious level. The story of the lion reminds us that these visual motifs are constantly evolving, being reborn in new contexts, and carrying forward the emotional intensity of generations.