Bijeenkomst van koning Hendrik II met het parlement bij de augustijnen, 1559 1570

Jean Perrissin’s print captures King Henry II meeting with the parliament in 1559. Look closely at the image's composition, and note the presence of the fleur-de-lis, the heraldic emblem of the French monarchy, emblazoned on the wall. This symbol, deeply intertwined with French national identity, evokes power and divine right. Yet, observe the unsettling scene unfolding before this backdrop of royal authority. On the floor, a man lies prostrate, a stark contrast to the composed assembly. This prone figure echoes the ancient motif of the vanquished or the sacrificed, a symbol that appears in mythologies and religious art across cultures. Consider how such images serve as powerful reminders of mortality. This juxtaposition—the regal symbols and the fallen figure—creates a tension that resonates deeply. It speaks to the precarious nature of power and the ever-present shadow of human fate. As we trace its evolution, we find it resurfacing in various forms, each time colored by its unique historical context. The enduring appeal of these symbols lies in their ability to engage viewers on a subconscious level, tapping into collective memories and primal fears.