Le Valet de Carreau 

Théophile Alexandre Steinlen made this striking artwork with strong symbols of love, fortune, and danger, all playing out in a whimsical dance. We are immediately drawn to the diamond motif, echoing throughout the composition. The diamond, historically linked to wealth and status, adorns the garments of the figures. The romantic ride and fallen figure suggest not just a symbol of fortune but also of the capricious nature of fate. Consider how the image of the dragon appears, a motif spanning millennia and cultures, often embodying chaos and primal fear. Yet, here, these creatures are bordering the Jack and Queen, creating a powerful tension between protection and threat. This reminds us of the ancient serpent, Ouroboros, consuming its own tail - a symbol of eternal return and the cyclical nature of life and death. The powerful symbolism in Steinlen’s work engages viewers on a deep, subconscious level, triggering ancestral memories. These are not just static symbols but living, breathing entities that evolve and adapt across cultures and eras.