Portret van dirigent Willem Mengelberg 1880 - 1940

This portrait of conductor Willem Mengelberg was produced by the Rijshouwer's Establishment. At first glance, we see a man of stature, his gaze direct and his attire suggesting refinement. It's the bow tie that captures my attention, a symbol of elegance and authority. Consider how the bow tie, a seemingly simple piece of fabric, has evolved over time. Its origins can be traced back to the cravats worn by Croatian mercenaries in the 17th century, a practical garment adopted by the French upper class. This sartorial choice speaks volumes about Mengelberg's status and his desire to project an image of sophistication. Just as the cravat evolved into the bow tie, symbols transform across generations, carrying layers of collective memory. Each symbol acts as a cultural touchstone that engages us on a subconscious level, evoking both familiarity and a sense of timelessness. This evolution is not linear, but cyclical, with symbols resurfacing, morphing, and accumulating new layers of meaning in different historical contexts.