De tooverlantaarn van Mr. Laronde [(...)] 1827 - 1894

This lithograph, "The Magic Lantern of Mr. Laronde", was created by M. Hemeleers-van Houter, likely for entertainment purposes. Rows of figures performing everyday tasks are presented to the viewer in a series of frames. Predominantly, we see people carrying things: baskets, sacks, and containers of various kinds. The act of carrying is a foundational human motif. Think of Atlas bearing the world, or images of migrants carrying their belongings. Carrying signifies burden, labor, and even survival. Each frame shows a different mode, subtly infusing the mundane with a sense of weight, both literal and symbolic. The figures bear not just physical objects, but also the weight of their roles within the fabric of society. Consider, too, the cyclical nature of this symbol. These acts are repeated across generations and cultures. The collective memory embedded in this simple act resonates even now, and continues to evolve with each repetition. It is a primal force, engaging us on a subconscious level with themes of labor, sustenance, and continuity.