Het nieuw vermakelijk ganzenspel 1856 - 1870

Antoine van Genechten's "Het nieuw vermakelijk ganzenspel," a board game, presents a spiral path punctuated by symbols, most notably the goose. This bird, depicted several times around the board, carries a rich tapestry of meanings. In ancient Egypt, the goose was associated with the sun god Ra, while in Greco-Roman culture, it was linked to vigilance and domesticity, often seen as a guardian. The spiral itself is a motif that winds through history, from the labyrinths of Crete to the Celtic triskeles. It speaks of journeys, both physical and spiritual, of getting lost and finding your way back. The game is reminiscent of the medieval "Wheel of Fortune," where fate dictates progress. The goose, in this context, becomes a playful yet potent symbol of chance, guiding players through life's unpredictable course. In our subconscious, the goose can evoke feelings of both freedom and vulnerability. Its presence here engages viewers on a deep, subconscious level, reminding us of the cyclical, ever-evolving nature of life and the enduring power of symbols. The spiral path, marked by geese, illustrates how ancient motifs resurface and evolve, adapting to new contexts while retaining their primal emotional resonance.