Gedenkteken voor Willem III, 1702 1702

Pieter van den Berge’s 1702 engraving, "Memorial to William III," now residing in the Rijksmuseum, uses powerful symbols to immortalize the deceased king. A winged figure trumpets from above, signaling William's ascent to heavenly glory. Below, allegorical figures of Justice and Britannia flank a bust of William, while a docile lion, a symbol of England, rests at their feet. Such imagery echoes through time, resonating with classical depictions of emperors and heroes. The winged figure, reminiscent of Fame in Roman art, highlights the desire to ensure William's lasting legacy. The lion, a symbol of strength and courage, appears throughout history, from ancient Mesopotamia to medieval heraldry. Its recumbent posture here softens its power, suggesting the peace brought by William's reign. The collective memory of such symbols elicits a powerful emotional response. The image taps into deep-seated archetypes of leadership, justice, and divine approval, engaging viewers on a profound, subconscious level. These symbols, ever-evolving, are a constant reminder of our shared cultural heritage, resurfacing in new contexts, their meanings forever transformed by the passage of time.