Het Huis Hunderen bij Twello 1744

This watercolor drawing depicts Het Huis Hunderen near Twello, made by Jan de Beijer in the 18th century. The house itself is crowned with a cross-like weather vane atop its central tower, a beacon of faith and direction. This symbol is an emblem of guidance, similar to the protective deities found in ancient Greek and Roman art, always watching over their domains. Over time, this protective element has evolved into a symbol of aspiration, of reaching towards something higher. The cross-like symbol is a recurrent motif through art history, from the early Christian crosses, symbols of salvation, to its adaptation in secular contexts, representing orientation and progress. Consider how, subconsciously, our ancestors projected their hopes and fears onto symbols, imbuing them with power. The persistence of these symbols in art speaks to our collective yearning for purpose, for navigation through the trials of existence. In this serene depiction, the cross offers a subtle yet poignant invitation to reflect on our own path through the world.