Panel c. 19th century

This panel features an all-over pattern of large ovals, resembling eyes, against a vibrant yellow backdrop. The eye motif, laden with protective and spiritual meaning, has traversed cultures and epochs. We can see the same symbol across different cultures. Think of ancient Egypt, where the Eye of Horus was a powerful symbol of protection, or the Greek concept of the evil eye, a malevolent gaze that could bring misfortune. The persistence of this symbol speaks to a deep-seated human fascination with sight and surveillance. The eye, as a symbol, evolves. In some contexts, it symbolizes knowledge and wisdom, as in the Eye of Providence in Western art, and in others it represents a more primal fear of being watched. This transformation reflects a dynamic cultural memory, shaped by collective experiences and subconscious anxieties. The emotional resonance of the eye motif lies in its ambiguity, a powerful force that engages viewers on a primal, almost subconscious level. The cyclical journey of the eye symbol demonstrates how visual symbols resurface, evolve, and acquire new meanings, bearing witness to humanity's changing cultural landscape.