Ridder te paard in wapenuitrusting after 1647

This is an engraving of a knight on horseback, made by an anonymous artist. The knight is fully armored, holding a sword, with the horse bearing the inscription 'F.E.R.T.' – the motto of the House of Savoy, which means 'steadfastly he holds on'. The image is not just a portrait; it’s an embodiment of power and authority. Consider the historical context: knights were symbols of status, military strength, and a strict social hierarchy. The visual language of this artwork reinforces traditional narratives of male dominance and aristocratic privilege. But what happens when we view this image through a contemporary lens? How do the ideals of chivalry and honor resonate today, especially when confronted with issues of inequality and social justice? This print invites us to reflect on our relationship to symbols of power and their continued relevance in a rapidly changing world.