Soldaten aan de maaltijd 1657 - 1733

This print, "Soldiers at Mealtime," by Jan van Huchtenburg, depicts a scene teeming with the raw energies of military life, its symbols echoing through time. Notice the fire, a beacon of warmth and camaraderie, but also a primal symbol of destruction. This dual nature reminds me of the eternal dance between creation and annihilation, echoing through myths and rituals across cultures. Even its flames recall ancient sacrificial pyres, connecting the soldier's humble meal with deeper, more primal human experiences. The horse, a steadfast companion, is a motif spanning from classical friezes to Renaissance tapestries. It appears as a symbol of power, freedom, and the untamed aspects of human nature. The dog lying at the soldier's feet, symbolizes loyalty and vigilance. Like the vigilant Cerberus guarding the gates of the underworld, the dog represents a primal connection to human emotions and memories, echoing the enduring power of visual symbols across time.