Vliegende roofvogel 1751 - 1816

Reinier Vinkeles rendered this "Flying Bird of Prey" with etching. Here, the raptor isn’t merely a bird but a symbol laden with the weight of ages, an embodiment of power and authority that resonates across cultures. Think of the Roman eagle, emblem of empire and military might, or the falcon, prized in ancient Egyptian society, linked to gods and royalty. The motif reappears through time—a visual echo that binds us to the past. Consider too, its metamorphosis: in some contexts, it represents spiritual aspiration, in others, pure predatory instinct. This image touches upon the complex interplay between our primal selves and our loftiest ideals. The bird’s flight evokes a sense of boundless freedom, yet the predatory gaze reminds us of the inherent struggles of existence. It invites us to reflect on our own place within this eternal dance of power and vulnerability.