Triomf van Gouverneur Starrenburg 1683

This engraving by Gaspar Bouttats, created around 1648-1695, depicts the Triumph of Governor Starrenburg. A visual language rooted in classical and religious symbolism dominates the composition. Note the celestial stairway, a potent symbol found throughout cultures as a conduit between earthly existence and divine ascension. We observe the governor ascending this stair towards enlightenment, guided by allegorical figures of Hope, Love, and Faith. This motif echoes the ancient Greek concept of "anodos," the soul's ascent towards immortality, a theme also found in early Christian art. The ladder, a recurring image from Jacob’s Ladder to Mithraic iconography, acts as a psychological bridge for human aspirations of transcendence. Consider too, the conquered figures under Starrenburg’s feet, symbolizing vanquished foes of earthly desires. These images are not just historical records, but manifestations of deeply embedded cultural memories, revealing our innate desire to overcome obstacles and achieve higher states of being. The enduring appeal of such imagery lies in its capacity to tap into our collective subconscious.