Gezicht op Elverdinge, Lo, Zottegem en een plattegrond van Roesbrugge 1652

Vedastus du Plouich crafted these images of Elverdinge, Lo, Zottegem, and Roesbrugge using engraving techniques. Dominating the skyline of each town, the coats of arms float ethereally. These heraldic symbols were not mere decorations but potent emblems of identity, power, and lineage in the 16th century. They served as visual anchors, connecting the present to the past, and the individual to the collective. The coats of arms remind me of similar emblems adorning medieval tapestries and the shields of ancient warriors. Think of the lion rampant, a symbol of courage and nobility, or the fleur-de-lis, representing purity and French royalty, each carrying layers of historical and cultural significance. They have evolved over centuries, adapting to shifting social and political landscapes, yet their core function remains: to evoke a sense of belonging. These symbols resonate deeply, tapping into our collective memory and subconscious desires for order, stability, and recognition. They are powerful forces engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level, promising continuity and heritage.