Episodes of Robinson Crusoe 1813 - 1823

This toile, “Episodes of Robinson Crusoe,” was designed by F. Pieters in the late 18th or early 19th century. Dominating the scene is Crusoe himself, adrift at sea, then civilized in his island refuge. Yet, it is the figure of Friday that captures my attention. Look closely at Friday’s attire, the parasol he holds. This isn’t merely protection from the sun; it is a symbol of dominion, historically carried by those of high rank. In ancient Persia and Rome, the parasol signified power, a tradition echoed in Asian cultures. Consider how this emblem of authority is now held by a ‘savage,’ a subversion that challenges European colonial narratives. Friday, armed and dignified, subverts the established order, reflecting a complex interplay of cultural appropriation and resistance. Such symbols engage viewers on a subconscious level, provoking a re-evaluation of ingrained beliefs. This is not a linear progression but a cyclical return, where symbols resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings.