Ship's Stern Piece c. 1940

This watercolor painting by Cornelius Christoffels shows a ship's stern piece emblazoned with an eagle clutching a shield bearing the stars and stripes of the American flag. The eagle, a symbol long associated with power, freedom, and authority, has been adopted by many cultures. Consider the Roman Empire’s use of the eagle as a symbol of military strength, and the double-headed eagle representing the Byzantine emperors. Here, the American eagle, with its fierce gaze and outstretched wings, conveys a sense of national pride and vigilance. This echoes through time, linking to ancient sun gods and emblems of kingship. The wreath of laurel leaves adds another layer, hearkening back to ancient Greece, where it signified victory and honor. The collective memory of these symbols creates a potent emotional impact, engaging our subconscious with ideas of strength, triumph, and national identity. The image's power lies not only in what it represents but in how these symbols resonate through history, resurfacing and evolving with each new context.