Portret van Friedrich Arnaud hertog van Schomberg 1670 - 1711

This etching by Pieter Schenk immortalizes Friedrich Arnaud, Duke of Schomberg. Note the armor, a powerful symbol of military prowess and protection, but also of the heavy burdens of leadership and the constant threat of conflict. This archetype of the armored figure isn't unique. Consider the ancient Roman emperors depicted in their cuirasses, or even medieval knights in shining armor. These images tap into a deep-seated human fascination with strength, security, and the will to power. Yet, the armor also speaks of vulnerability. It acknowledges that even the mightiest are susceptible to harm, a truth that resonates across epochs. The armor motif is an evolution—from practical battle gear to a symbolic representation of inner fortitude and societal role. It reflects our collective memory of battles fought and the psychological need for protection against both tangible and intangible threats. The Duke, encased in this metal skin, becomes an allegorical figure, a reminder of the eternal dance between power and vulnerability.